As our access to technology grows, so does our ability to deliver quality healthcare over long distances. As more physicians begin to offer telemedicine, you may be wondering about what it is, how you can benefit, and some of the drawbacks of using it. We’re covering everything you need to know about telemedicine so that you can make informed decisions about your care.

 

What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine is healthcare delivered using digital communication tools, including phones, computers, and websites. It lets you connect with healthcare professionals from the comfort of your own home. You can receive high-quality medical care without needing to visit a doctor’s office in person.

Examples of telemedicine include virtual visits (appointments via video chat or over the phone), remote health monitoring via health apps, devices to measure health data like blood sugar or blood pressure, and devices to send you health notifications (such as reminders to take your medication).

 

Why Use Telemedicine?

There are many reasons people use telemedicine. In rural areas, where there are fewer healthcare professionals available, telemedicine can help people in the community receive the care they need or have follow-up appointments with their doctor without having to travel long distances. People with disabilities also benefit from the accessibility of telemedicine. 

Telemedicine can also safeguard the health of yourself and others if you have an infectious disease, such as a cold, flu, or COVID-19. 

Additionally, telemedicine may make specialists more accessible to patients navigating complex health issues. You may also find it easier to manage your health with the help of apps that give you important reminders about your medication and other aspects of self-care.

Telemedicine is convenient and may provide care comparable to in-person visits in certain situations. However, it has drawbacks, and usually cannot completely replace in-person care.

 

Is Telemedicine Secure?

Given the open nature of the internet, it’s natural to be concerned about the security of your data and confidential health information when using telemedicine. Most providers have taken steps to keep your information as private as possible by using secure platforms specifically designed for telemedicine. These platforms use additional encryption and security measures, making them far more secure than general-use chat platforms like Zoom or Teams.

While there is always a small risk of data exposure when using the internet, telemedicine platforms are generally secure and safe to use.

 

What Are the Drawbacks of Telemedicine?

While telemedicine has many benefits in terms of increasing accessibility, it also has drawbacks that you should carefully consider when booking an appointment. Some of the drawbacks include:

• • Not all conditions can be effectively treated via telemedicine. Any health issue requiring immediate or urgent treatment should be treated in person at your urgent care center or the emergency room.
  • Diagnosis over telemedicine can be imprecise or incorrect, as doctors cannot perform a physical exam. Any conditions that require a physical exam are not suitable for telemedicine.
  • Insurance reimbursement for telemedicine varies. Check with your health insurance provider to ensure that your coverage includes virtual visits.
  • Telemedicine often requires a fast, stable internet connection. For those with limited internet access, telemedicine isn’t a viable option.

• Technology can be unpredictable. Bad connections, dropped calls, and technical glitches can happen and may prevent or interrupt your virtual visit. In these cases, you may need to follow up with an in-person appointment instead.

• Telemedicine apps may not share information with your regular doctor. If you use a telemedicine app to access care outside of your primary physician, the app may not share that information with your doctor to keep them updated on your condition.

 

Telemedicine typically isn’t a complete substitute for in-person care. Instead, think of it as a supplement to your existing care that can help you manage your health more effectively.

 

Which Healthcare Concerns Are a Good Fit for Telemedicine?

Certain health conditions are more easily managed with telemedicine than others. These conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Mental health issues. Psychological assessments and psychotherapy can be effectively delivered via telemedicine in many cases.
• Chronic conditions like migraines or diabetes. A virtual visit may allow you to update your doctor on the status of an existing chronic condition that you’re managing.

• Cold, flu, and other infectious diseases. Telemedicine can help contain your infection risk and still provide you with the care you need.

• Consults on X-rays or lab tests. Your doctor can review your results with you via telemedicine.

• Medication follow-ups. If you’ve been prescribed a new medication, you may be able to check in with your doctor via telemedicine to share your progress and concerns.

 

Which Concerns Should Not Be Addressed with Telemedicine?

Some symptoms should never be treated with telemedicine, as they may be signs of a much more serious condition that requires immediate assessment and treatment.

Do NOT book a telemedicine appointment for:

• Severe chest pain
• Head injuries
• Unexplained or severe bleeding
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Weakness on one side of your body

Instead, please visit your nearest emergency room immediately. Likewise, any new symptoms, from mild to moderate severity, should be addressed by visiting one of our urgent care clinics.

 

Book Your Telemedicine Appointment Today with Lincoln Urgent Care

Telemedicine is just one more tool to help you get the quality healthcare you need and deserve. While there are benefits to in-person visits, telemedicine can be a great supplement to your existing care. At Lincoln Urgent Care, it’s easy to access our telemedicine services on our website. Simply use our online booking system to schedule your virtual visit with one of our qualified team members. Book online today and enjoy access to quality care from the comfort of your home!

 

Lincoln Urgent Care (916) 258-2751
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Lincoln Urgent Care Roseville (916) 727-6846