Telehealth comes with a sense of ease for those who use it: You can schedule appointments within hours of needing care and can talk to a doctor from the comfort of your home. It can also be beneficial for people living in rural areas without nearby medical services. But there can be some drawbacks. Telehealth appointments come with unexpected costs. For medical conditions that aren’t straightforward, there could be more benefits to seeking an in-person doctor. If you are considering trying online doctors, here are some things to keep in mind:
🩺 Video visits can be a helpful way to evaluate sick children and skin and nail infections. But these visits can be complicated for people who are not as technologically savvy.
🩺 Telehealth doesn’t work for conditions that require physical exams, like joint pain, or procedures such as receiving vaccinations.
🩺 If you don’t have a clear diagnosis, it is often worth it to meet with a doctor in person. Real-life visits can be more thorough, and doctors can learn about your condition by observation and a physical exam.
🩺 Many telehealth providers offer specialized care for sensitive issues, such as hormone therapy for menopause. If your regular doctor isn't comfortable treating something like this, some telehealth experts can provide you with quick access. |