When an IV from Patriot IV isn’t enough, Telehealth service from Novellus Health is a way for patients to receive access to medical care without leaving their home or work. A caregiver and a patient are in two completely separate locations but can communicate directly using technology. Typically, this involves utilizing video conferencing services like Zoom or as simple as a telephone call.
As long as appropriate standards of care are followed, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) supports the use of telehealth and telemedicine to improve health.
The COVID-19 pandemic that began in early 2020 has made telehealth care more important than ever before. In a time where leaving the house risks exposure to a potentially dangerous virus, patients can still see their doctors from the safety of their own homes.
Telemedican is also beneficial for patients who can’t easily get to a doctor’s office or who may be short on time.
Path to improved wellness
Telemedicine or telehealth began as a way to serve rural populations with limited access to doctors. It is gaining popularity everywhere because of the advantages it offers. These include:
Doing more with less.
Convenience
Access to quality care
Better management of chronic disease
Avoiding wait time and crowded waiting rooms
When can a telehealth visit help me?
Telemedicine can help with a variety of illnesses, symptoms, or even learning more about your overall health. You may be able to speak to your doctor virtually about:
Allergies
Arthritis
Asthma, respiratory and sinus infections
Bladder infections and UTIs
Bronchitis
Colds and flu
Diarrhea or constipation
Education about your health
Fever
Headaches
Infections
Insect bites
Joint aches and pain
Managing medications
Medical questions
Pink eye
Rashes, infections, or inflammation
Small wounds and cuts
Sore throats
Sports injuries or other physical injuries
Sprained or strained muscles
Support for making medical decisions
Test results
Vomiting, heartburn, and nausea
Speak with a medical professional at your convenience
Telemedicine offers access to care in situations where it may otherwise be difficult to see a doctor. Some examples include:
You are on a vacation or work trip. (Your physician needs to have a license in the state you are in during travel.)
You need an appointment outside regular office hours.
You have no one to care for your young children at home.
You need a prescription refill immediately.
You can’t take time off work.
It’s difficult to travel to your doctor’s office.
You don’t want to risk exposure to any germs in a physical doctor’s office.
You’re caring for an elderly loved one who is frail or has dementia making it hard to bring them to an office.
Things to consider
While there are many positives to telemedicine, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are times when it may still be preferable to go to your doctor’s physical office. Not all exams can be done remotely, and you may need to go to an office for a lab work or other test prior to your telemedicine visit. And sometimes, technology does have drawbacks. You’ll need a reliable high-speed internet connection for video visits. Your doctor may not be able to clearly see some physical signs, such as skin conditions, using a standard computer or phone camera. Additionally, your doctor can’t listen to your heart, lungs, or pinpoint your exact area of tenderness, which will help them diagnose you. In these instances, it may be better to go see your doctor in person. Medical emergencies and difficult cases will also likely require an in-person visit.
