If you or a family member is feeling ill, had a fall, or is experiencing pain, under normal conditions you would just see your doctor. However, amid COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019), you may be wondering: “How do I receive medical care while protecting myself and my family from the pandemic?”
After all, we’re being told to practice social distancing at all times. Plus, healthcare facilities are to be avoided except in dire circumstances, because no one wants to be exposed to someone who is potentially getting treated for the coronavirus.
Fortunately, technology is being harnessed in our favor, and doctors are working on clever ways to bring medical care to their patients in the safest way possible. In particular, there’s a new favorite way in which healthcare is being delivered while retaining complete social distancing: telemedicine. Let’s talk about what this entails and where you can go to receive virtual healthcare.
Telehealth Services During COVID-19
Telemedicine, also called telehealth, is becoming more widely available for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doctors and patients can use their cellphones, or their computers via Skype or similar videoconferencing services, to discuss health issues face-to-face virtually. Telemedicine therefore protects both patients and medical staff from the coronavirus, fulfilling social distancing standards.
Obviously, not every health condition may be sufficiently addressed through telemedicine – in which case, doctors usually schedule an in-person visit. Healthcare providers may also use a hybrid model whereby patients can receive both virtual and in-person medical care, depending on the assessment of their medical issues. Healthcare providers are quickly realizing that telemedicine eases anxieties which a patient may have during the COVID-19 pandemic about going to a medical office of any kind.
How to Use Telemedicine
Using telemedicine is easy. With a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer that’s connected to the internet and is capable of making video calls, such as via Skype, you can schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider via their website or via phone. You will then connect at the time of your appointment.
If you don’t have access to video capability, your doctor may be able to talk to you about your condition via a regular phone call. It depends on what the condition is, because visuals may be necessary in some cases.
Telehealth serves patients who have nonemergency healthcare needs, such as:
- Wellness checkups
- Follow-up appointments
- Chronic disease management
- Medication consultation
- Nutrition counseling
- Mental health counseling
- Sinusitis
- Asthma
- Insect bites
- Rashes
- Allergies
- Diarrhea
- Minor sprains and strains
Of course, immunizations and vaccinations are essential and require in-person visits. These services are being provided in healthcare clinics throughout the country, with extra safety precautions being taken.
Urgent Care Clinic in North Richland Hills, TX
At EMC Express Care, your health and safety are our top priorities. In addition to in-office visits, our healthcare providers continue to see patients through telemedicine visits. We are fully aware of the limitations of telemedicine, and we will advise that you schedule an in-person appointment if we determine that the condition is best evaluated in person.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a telemedicine visit, call us at (817) 503-8800 today. The EMC Express Care team of physicians and staff looks forward to serving you.
