Did you know that you can visit your doctor without having to go to the doctor’s office at all? It sounds crazy, but telehealth is a real option for most people now.
The COVID-19 pandemic hit everyone hard, and we had to find ways to adapt. Suddenly, it was dangerous for the patient and doctor to be in the same room without extensive safety protocols. Enter telehealth.
Telehealth, or telemedicine, is the practice of administering medical care over a telecommunications service (usually a video calling service or text message chat). It’s a way to stay updated and healthy without having to drive out to the doctor’s office every time you need to discuss lab results or ask questions. It’s really useful for people with ongoing health issues and chronic health conditions because your physician can check in on you with little to no friction.
What happens during a telehealth visit?
It’s just like a normal doctor’s office visit, except online. Because of the distance, however, you might need to take some of your measurements or keep track of things that your doctor usually would do for you. You might need to take your own blood pressure or heart rate, just so your physician knows how you’re doing. Be ready to send photos, medical records, and documentation online.
Why telehealth?
Even though it won’t ever replace the quality and thoroughness of in-person care, telehealth is a good alternative to not visiting your doctor at all. It cuts down on commute times and is a lot more frictionless. It also gives you much easier access to healthcare professionals that don’t practice near you. It also reduces the amount of time you need to take off from work or school because the wait times aren’t as long and the drive is nonexistent.
We’re excited to share that Passion Health Primary Care offers telehealth visits, too! If you’d like an appointment, call us at 214-666-6259 or schedule an appointment in the contact tab above the post.
Author Jai Sammpath