You’ve heard of TeleHealth and probably understand the concept, but is it actually a good idea? Can you actually get as good of medical advice through a video meeting with your doctor?
Right now more than ever, more and more physicians are relying on technology to assist with patient care as a way to expedite appointments and continue practicing social quarantine as advised by healthcare professionals and government officials in response to the COVID-19 virus. These virtual appointments allow us to continue meeting with patients to assess their level of need before coming in for a face-to-face appointment.
We’d like to explain some more of the details to help you decide if a virtual telemedicine appointment is right for you.
Why consider a TeleHealth visit?
Telehealth has actually been available for longer than you might have thought- beginning with the telephone. Further advancements in technology have allowed patient portals and communication via the internet to become the norm in patient information and communications. Now, video is helping improve our communication even further.
TeleHealth allows you to discuss symptoms, medical issues, and more with a healthcare provider in realtime. This way, you can receive a diagnosis, learn your treatment options, and get a prescription.
The 3 most common types of TeleHealth are:
- Live- when physicians and patients communicate in real-time.
- Remote patient monitoring- allows caregivers to monitor patients who use mobile medical equipment to collect data on things like blood pressure, blood sugar levels, etc.
- Store and forward: Providers can share a patient’s health information with other healthcare professionals or specialists.
How does TeleHealth work?
For situations like a heart attack or stroke, cuts or lacerations, or broken bones that require x-rays, splints, or casts, please make your way to an emergency room or hospital. Anything that requires immediate, hands-on care should be handled in person.
However, TeleHealth is very useful for situations that aren’t life-threatening or where you need advisement more than hands-on care. If you suspect that a cut may be infected, you can schedule a virtual consultation with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. If you’re on vacation and think you’re coming down with strep throat, you can communicate with your primary care physician. If you need a birth control medication, you can discuss your needs and get a same-day prescription.
As the popularity grows, check with your health insurance plan, as more are beginning to offer coverage for TeleHealth visits.
TeleHealth at The Woman’s Clinic
The Woman’s Clinic has introduced TeleHealth as a protective measure for our most vulnerable patients while we navigate COVID-19, however, it may continue to be a viable option the next time you schedule your appointment. TeleHealth doesn’t mean that you’ll never visit a doctor’s office again, but it does make care more accessible. Plus, it can definitely help reduce the time you spend in your doctor’s waiting room.
Schedule your next virtual appointment with The Woman’s Clinic now!
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