What Are the Benefits of Telehealth?
There never seem to be enough hours in the day. We have to balance the things we have to do with the things we want to do. Our calendars are overbooked, and we often feel overwhelmed. So, how do we manage to take care of ourselves? Let’s explore the benefits of telehealth and the role it plays in your life. We’ll discuss what conditions are treated with telemedicine services and if you can get medications prescribed during a telehealth visit. We’ll also give you some tips on how to prepare for your telehealth appointment and the steps you need to take to schedule a telehealth appointment at AllCare.
What Is Telehealth?
When we think about healthcare, we often picture visits to the doctor or trips to the emergency room. Usually, that means leaving home, dealing with traffic, and trying to find time to fit a doctor’s appointment into your busy schedule. But now, with technology, telehealth allows patients to receive the care they need from the comfort of their home. However, telehealth is more than just the doctor-patient relationship. It can also include services provided by nurses, specialists, and pharmacists working as a team to support your health needs.
- Read more: What is Telemedicine?
What are the Benefits of Telehealth?
There are a number of advantages of telemedicine for both patients and providers, including:
Convenience
One of the primary telehealth benefits for patients is ease of access. You can consult with your doctor from the comfort of your home, office, or even while on vacation—without needing to travel, arrange childcare, or fit an appointment into your busy schedule.
Easy Access
Telehealth allows more patients to access care, including specialists, which is especially important in underserved and rural areas.
Control of Infectious Diseases
To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, the flu, and other infectious diseases, doctors offer telehealth appointments to keep sick patients from needing to visit the office in person. It also minimizes the risk of exposing others to germs. It’s especially beneficial for vulnerable groups, including those who are chronically ill, pregnant, elderly, or immunocompromised.
Family Participation
In some cases, patients may want to have a family member present to ask questions, decipher medical information, and take note of their doctor’s answers. If a family member lives in another location, a telehealth appointment can easily involve them in conversations about your care.
Chronic Condition Management
Managing a chronic condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure is crucial for your health. Telehealth offers a convenient way for healthcare providers to monitor your medications and check for any side effects you might be experiencing. It allows you to stay in closer contact with your doctors, making it easier to discuss any new symptoms or concerns as they arise. It can also help you access educational resources, lifestyle tips, and support, empowering you to take an active role in your health journey.
Common Conditions Treated with Telehealth
Telehealth is not just for regular check-ins with your doctor. It can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
Common conditions, like:
- Coughs
- Colds
- COVID-19
- Earaches
- Nausea
- Congestion
- Allergies
- Minor cuts and burns
- Skin rash
- Cold sores
- Fever blisters
- Insect bites/stings
Telehealth can also help manage chronic conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Respiratory conditions
- HIV
- End-stage renal disease
- Dermatological conditions
- Rheumatological conditions
- Mental health conditions
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cancer care
- Migraines
Can Medications be Prescribed During a Telehealth Visit?
Yes, telehealth providers can prescribe certain medications. However, it’s important to note that some health concerns will require an in-person visit to your primary care physician or an urgent care facility. Some medications that can be prescribed via telehealth include:
- Medications for acid reflux
- Antibiotics when needed
- Antihistamines
- Antifungals
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Antiviral medications
- Birth control
- Certain topical treatments
- Steroids
- Pain relievers
- Some antidepressants
Telehealth providers can also prescribe refills for maintenance medications related to chronic conditions, such as depression and anxiety, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes.
How to Prepare for Your Telehealth Visit
If you’ve never scheduled a telehealth visit, or if you simply need a refresher, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your telehealth visit:
- Understand the cost and if your visit is covered by insurance. If you’re not sure, check with your insurance provider to understand the costs and co-pays that may be associated with a telehealth visit.
- Fill out any necessary forms your provider sends before your visit.
- Test your technology. Ensure your internet and the device you will use for your visit are working. Check to make sure you know how to use your camera correctly. Check your speakers and earphones if you will be using them to ensure you can hear your provider. Make sure your device is fully charged.
- Make a list of all your current medications and supplements. Also, have a list of any allergies or allergic reactions to food or medication handy.
- Prepare your questions and concerns so you don’t lose your train of thought or forget to ask questions during your appointment.
Schedule Your Online Doctor Appointment at AllCare
At AllCare, we make addressing your healthcare concerns easy and convenient through primary, urgent care, and telehealth visits. Our telehealth option allows you to receive expert medical guidance from experienced healthcare providers at a time that’s convenient for you, all from the comfort of your home. Our online booking platform makes it easy to schedule a telehealth appointment at any time of the day. Remember, AllCare telehealth services can only be provided by healthcare professionals in the state they are licensed in. This allows us to remain in compliance with state-specific healthcare regulations and enables us to provide the highest standard of care to our patients.
Prioritize your health. Schedule your telehealth appointment with AllCare.