Today people are obsessed with convenience. How can I make my life easier? We can order groceries without even stepping in the store, Amazon allows us to have products in 2 days’ time, and we can stream show and movies instantly to our devices. Did you know that seeing a doctor can be as simple as those things? Virtual visits are allowing health care to be more convenient. We can now talk to doctors through smartphones, computers, tablets, etc. without ever having to step foot in a doctor’s office. 

Virtual visits won’t be able to care for all types of ailments, some will require in person care. But certain health issues are easily treated virtually. They include allergies, bladder infections, bronchitis, coughing, fever, sinus problems, migraines and headaches, rashes, bug bites, pink eye, diarrhea, sore throats, the flu and stomachaches. Studies have shown that virtual visits have saved consumers more than an hour or their time. Virtual visits also will cost the consumer way less than a trip to urgent care or the emergency room. 

Another benefit of virtually connecting is being able to show your health care provider just what medications and supplements you are taking. How many of us have been in the doctor’s office to forget or not be able to pronounce the medication we are currently taking. If you are meeting with your doctor virtually you will be able to actually show the doctor everything you are taking and any equipment you may be using. 

Before you connect online with your provider, there are few helpful hints that will make your visit go more smoothly. Make sure that you are using the right equipment. You will need to have a video component. Some providers will require you to download an app that will allow for a secure connection. Make sure that your internet connection is working properly, the stronger the signal the better connection you will have. Verify with your insurance company that your session will be covered. It is helpful if you are sitting in a quiet and well-lit place. The fewer the distractions the better. Use headphone or earbuds, it can make it much easier to hear and understand the doctor. It also will help keep your conversation more private. Prepare for your visit by listing any issues you wish to discuss with your doctor so that you can stay focused and remember everything you planned on discussing on the visit. Be patient and realize that technology can be unreliable. Screens might freeze or calls might be dropped, just realize that everyone and everything is working as hard as they can to ensure the call goes smoothly.

Connecting virtually with a doctor can vary greatly depending on the need and specialty. Surgeons might use this type of visit to do a post-op check in to see how things are going after surgery. Gynecologists might use this type of service to discuss birth control options. Endocrinologist may use this method to discuss lab results and answer relevant questions. It is actually amazing how much health care can be provided through a virtual visit. Gone are the days where you have to visit a doctor for every ailment. Now days we have the option to connect virtually with a healthcare provider and get just the same if not even better quality treatment.