I'm Too Sick to Get to the Doctor's Office: Can You Walk Me Through Telemedicine?

Are you feeling too sick to get out of bed, but you know you need medical attention?  Telemedicine might be the solution you're looking for. Skip the traffic, skip the wait, and get personalized medical guidance while you never leave home. 

You can consult with medical director Russell Huq, MD, or any of the health care professionals at Rapid City Healthcare in  Irving, Texas, from the comfort and security of your home. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand and navigate telemedicine.

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, uses digital communication tools like video calls, phone calls, and messaging to provide clinical health care remotely. 

By shifting your health care online when possible, telemedicine offers many benefits. They include:

• Timely treatment
• Affordable care
• Access to care even if you’re living in a remote area or have mobility issues
• Reduced waiting times and eliminating the need to commute
• Minimized risk of exposure to contagious diseases

You can’t beat the convenience of consulting with a medical professional from your home if you’re not feeling well.

How to get started with telemedicine

Starting with telemedicine is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth experience:

Check eligibility

Verify with our team that your symptoms qualify for a telehealth visit when scheduling your appointment.

Set up the necessary technology

You need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Ensure your internet connection is stable and fast enough for video calls. 

Prepare for your appointment

Before your telemedicine session, gather any relevant medical records, a list of current medications, and any questions you have for the medical team. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can talk privately and without interruptions.

During the telemedicine consultation

Here's what to expect during your telemedicine appointment:

Connecting with your doctor

At the scheduled time, log in to the telemedicine platform and connect with your doctor. Ensure your camera and microphone are working properly. The doctor greets you and begins the consultation, similar to an in-person visit.

Discussing your symptoms

Describe all relevant information, including when your symptoms started and how severe they are. The doctor may ask you to perform simple physical tasks, such as checking your pulse or showing a rash via the camera.

Receiving a diagnosis and treatment plan

Based on the information you provide, the doctor diagnoses your condition and suggests a treatment plan. This may include prescriptions, home care advice, or follow-up appointments. If necessary, the doctor might recommend an in-person visit for further evaluation.

Challenges and limitations of telemedicine

While telemedicine is convenient, it has some limitations. A poor internet connection can disrupt your consultation or make it impossible to start your appointment. And obviously, some conditions require a hands-on examination, which telemedicine doesn’t allow.

Schedule a telemedicine appointment

With telemedicine, you can say goodbye to dilemmas like needing to rest but also requiring care: You can have both. By understanding how it works and preparing adequately, you can make the most of telehealth. Call the office or book an appointment online today.