When Should Telehealth Be Used?

Not every health issue requires a trip to your doctor’s office. Instead, many health concerns can now be addressed from the comfort of your own home.

Telehealth use has risen dramatically in recent years. Remote services do have limitations, so it’s important to know when to use telehealth appointments and when to see your primary care physician in person.

What Is a Telehealth Appointment?

Telehealth appointments use technology to connect patients with health care professionals remotely. Using your computer or smartphone, you can see your primary care physician for medical advice, diagnoses and even treatment without having to venture out.

Your doctor should give you tips on preparing for your telehealth appointment. A few common types of telehealth appointments include:

• Live video: This type of visit offers real-time interactions with your health care professional.
• Remote evaluations: You might record images or videos to send to your PCP for evaluation.
• Audio-only visits: These appointments typically take place over the phone.

Telehealth can also take the form of secure messaging through an online patient portal.

What Situations Are Appropriate for Telemedicine?

For many people, telemedicine is a safer and more convenient alternative to in-person medical visits. However, the appropriateness of telehealth depends on the patient and the situation. Ultimately, your health care provider should help you decide if telemedicine is right for you.

A telehealth visit is likely appropriate for:

• General wellness visits.
• Chronic disease management.
• Discussion of lab results.
• Post-treatment follow-ups.
• Prescription refills.
• Advice about diagnostic and therapeutic options.

What Conditions Can Be Treated Through Telehealth Visits?

Telehealth appointments are a great option in terms of convenience and immediacy. A virtual visit with your health care professional can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Cold, cough and flu-like symptoms.
• Urgent care issues, like chickenpox, pink eye and infections.
• Minor physical injuries, such as sports injuries, sprains or strains.
• Mental health concerns.
• Recurring disorders, like allergies, asthma, UTIs and migraines.
• Skin conditions, such as rash or inflammation.
• Chronic conditions, like high cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Nutrition counseling.

When to Avoid Telehealth Services

Some situations, including urgent care and emergency scenarios, require a physical examination or immediate medical attention.

Avoid putting yourself or a loved one in danger. Here are some situations where you should forgo telehealth and opt for in-person health care:

• Chest pain or pressure.
• Abdominal pain.
• Difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath.
• Seizure.
• Suspected broken bones.
• Unexplained changes in mental state, such as confusion or delirium.
• Difficulty rousing someone from sleep.
• Eye complaints.
• Gynecological concerns.
• Dental issues.
• Highly nuanced or complex health concerns.

Why Telehealth Is Important

Despite its limitations in some cases, telemedicine offers incredible benefits, including:

• Comfort: You no longer have to drive long distances or wait in an uncomfortable waiting room when sick.
• Convenience: Telehealth appointments offer incredible convenience if you live in a remote area or can’t take time away from work or child care.
• Less exposure to illness: Virtual visits help prevent the spread of infectious diseases, including the flu and COVID-19.
• Immediacy: Telehealth makes connecting with available health care providers quicker and easier.
• Cost savings: In general, telemedicine tends to be less expensive than an in-person visit to your PCP.

Learn More About Telehealth From Health for California

If you’d like to include the benefits of telemedicine in your health care coverage, Health for California Insurance Center can help you find a plan that covers it. Our online application process is easy — plus, experienced agents are always available to offer expert guidance.

Learn how we can help simplify your health care and telehealth journey. Contact us online or request your free quote today.