Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine has become increasingly popular. Online doctor’s visits have become available in various healthcare fields, from therapy to family medicine.
However, as some issues cannot be resolved remotely, a telehealth appointment might not be a good fit. If you’re unsure if a virtual appointment is suitable for you, we’ll share some pros and cons of online visits to make your decision easier.
What is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine refers to a doctor’s appointment or consultation completed entirely online. You can conveniently access your appointment from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Telemedicine appointments are entirely secure, and your doctor can even take advantage of remotely monitoring health equipment and sending documentation and notices virtually.
Related Post: Practicing During a Pandemic: Concierge Medicine Helps Doctors and Patients Cope with COVID-19
Pros of Telemedicine
One of the most apparent benefits is that a virtual visit can save you time. An online appointment cuts the time to commute and the session in the waiting room. A remote visit is ideal for those with busy schedules or who only need to see their physicians for a quickly-resolved issue.
A telemedicine appointment can save you money. Castle Connolly Private Health Partner Members enjoy 24/7 connectivity to their physicians. These quick calls to their doctors for medical advice prevent expensive trips to urgent care centers.
The convenience of virtual visits is unmatched. When you need a quick doctor's note for work or school, remotely visiting your physician is a great advantage. No one likes to leave the house while sick, so a virtual visit is often the best option for easily diagnosable conditions.
Concierge members enjoy an enhanced relationship with their physicians, offering them even more convenience than other primary care practices.
From a physician's perspective, online visits also offer convenience, as they’re likely to have fewer cancellations, more time to focus on administrative duties in-between appointments, and easier follow-ups.
Telemedicine makes visiting the doctor more accessible for people with mobility issues or other health conditions that could impact movement. A remote visit is a powerful tool in accessibility, as it provides an option for preventative medical care to patients who might not have had it before.
Cons of Telemedicine
One reason someone might opt out of a telehealth visit is that there’s no physical examination option. An in-person examination is necessary if a particular condition isn’t easily diagnosable from a chat with your physician.
Another obstacle to telemedicine is access to technology and issues with technical difficulties. Not every patient is familiar with using their smartphone, tablet, or computer and might find an online appointment challenging to navigate.
Experience Connectivity in Healthcare
While many physicians offer virtual visits, not all programs are created equally. Castle Connolly Private Health Partner Members enjoy membership perks, including access to the SENS Solution® Wellness Program.
To learn more directly from a CCPHP representative, find a physician near you or schedule a chat with our team.
