What does Telehealth primarily encompass?

Telehealth primarily encompasses the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to deliver healthcare services over long distances. This can include remote consultations with healthcare providers, access to medical records, and the transmission of health data via digital means. The emphasis is on overcoming geographical barriers to provide care, making it accessible to individuals in rural or underserved areas.

Through telehealth, patients can engage in video calls, receive follow-up care, and consult specialists without the need to visit a healthcare facility in person. This aspect of telehealth is particularly vital in promoting health equity and ensuring timely medical attention regardless of a patient's location.

In contrast, other choices focus on more specific elements that don't capture the broad, comprehensive nature of telehealth. For instance, short-distance healthcare interactions are not representative of telehealth's primary goal. The administration of pharmaceuticals through digital means and physical examinations facilitated by mobile devices, while related to telehealth, are more specific practices rather than the overarching definition of telehealth itself. Thus, the correct choice highlights the extensive use of technology for long-distance healthcare delivery.