Healthcare providers have been using telemedicine or telehealth to provide diagnostic and treatment services to patients for years. However, the concept recently gained ground following an increased need to remotely treat infectious diseases and other medical conditions. Telehealth delivers medical services to patients who need them without forcing them to drive to the hospital. Typically, appointments take place over video chat or the telephone, during which time a telehealth Rockville specialist assesses your symptoms and provides a treatment regimen. Here is a look at the conditions that benefit from this.
Colds, Flu, and Other Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases like COVID-19 are the primary reason more hospitals are providing telehealth services. The pandemic and the resulting lockdown required that doctors find a way to reach their patients without compromising the health and safety of either party. Consequently, some of the most common conditions treated through telemedicine include the flu, the common cold, sinusitis, and other upper respiratory infections. Your doctor reviews the description of your symptoms to diagnose your condition and determine whether you need in-house treatment.
Minor Strains and Sprains
Also called soft tissue injuries, sprains, and strains can be quite painful and limiting. They include pulled muscles, hyperextended elbows, twisted ankles, and torn ligaments. But while they can be serious, they do not always warrant a visit to the hospital. You do not need a face-to-face visit with your doctor to determine if you need to elevate your ankle. Your provider can tell you this over the phone. During your appointment, you can discuss the nature of the accident, your pan level, and more. Your doctor can then prescribe interventions like rest, pain medication, or physical therapy.
Skin Conditions and Minor Cuts
Healthcare providers can also address mild scrapes and cuts during your telehealth appointment. These are minor injuries that you suffer at home or school while doing everyday activities and that do not cause excessive bleeding. Usually, they do not require an X-ray because the possibility of fractures is low. Beyond that, your doctor can also treat minor skin conditions like rashes and allergic reactions. This field of telemedicine is known as telederm or teledermatology and is useful in diagnosing and treating diaper rash, eczema, acne, and other skin conditions.
Digestive Problems
If you are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, gas, and heartburn, you can contact your doctor via video call to find out the problem. These signs often point to a digestive problem and can usually be resolved through over-the-counter medication or some lifestyle changes. However, if your doctor determines that you need further tests, you can schedule these during your call.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections are more common than you may think, especially among women between 20 and 40. In fact, four in every ten women will get a UTI at least once in their lifetime. But while they are uncomfortable, you do not always need a doctor’s visit to treat a UTI. Your provider can diagnose and treat your symptoms through a telehealth session.
Enjoy the Convenience of Telemedicine
Telemedicine is a convenient way to receive medical care. It allows you to get prescriptions, medical advice, and other treatments from the comfort of your home. Reducing the number of visits you make to the hospital, it can also be a financially sound way to go about your health. If you are experiencing worrying symptoms and prefer not to go to the hospital, contact a telehealth provider to schedule an appointment. They will inform you if you need to come in for more help.
