The coronavirus pandemic has changed various industries across the globe, but few have been as impacted as the healthcare field. With social distancing mandates and people sheltering-in-place, doctors had to develop innovative ways to administer care to their patients. One solution many turned to is telehealth services.

These online doctor visits give patients access to a doctor from the safety of their own home, and many industry experts expect this trend to continue well after the pandemic has passed. However, some people are still confused about what an online doctor visit actually is and what to expect when they schedule one, but the team here at MyTeleBenefits can help clarify any misconceptions you may have.

What are telehealth services?

The Health Resources Services Administration defines telehealth services as the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance clinical health care and patient health-related education. Put more simply, telehealth services allow patients to attend a virtual appointment with a doctor through the use of technology.

You can set up an appointment and remote into it using video conference call technologies, online patient portals, and messaging systems to interact with the doctor in real-time. While it can’t replace in-person emergency care, telehealth offerings are proven treatment options for numerous symptoms and conditions.

What is included in an online doctor visit?

Since telehealth services are still relatively new, many patients aren’t sure what to expect from the process, but you can rest assured knowing it’s simple and straightforward. You set up the appointment on your preferred platform, and you are matched with a doctor who is licensed to treat you in the state you live in. You’re then connected to that provider by phone, secure video, or a telehealth smartphone app.

During the consultation, you talk to the doctor about any health concerns you have, and they provide valuable insights into possible causes of the symptoms and treatment options. They can even prescribe medication if necessary, which you can pick up from your preferred pharmacy. After the appointment, you might schedule a virtual follow-up or use remote monitoring technologies to share ongoing information with your health care team.

How are telehealth services beneficial for patients?

Added convenience.

Having the ability to access a doctor on your schedule makes it easier to receive the care you need. You can schedule the appointment whenever is most convenient for you, and there are no issues with traveling, taking time off work, or arranging childcare.

Improved access.

Since patients have access to various doctors with telehealth services, they often receive more thorough care. That’s especially true for people who live in rural areas and are outside the standard care delivery systems who otherwise might not have access to the provider they need.

Improved overall health.

With the prohibitive costs of seeing specialists and the inconvenience of traveling to an appointment eliminated, many people could become much more proactive with their health. By taking more preventative measures, patients bolster their health and reduce the risk of experiencing severe problems later in life.

MyTeleBenefits makes telehealth easy.

If you still have questions about what an online doctor visit is and how it can help you, reach out to the team here at MyTeleBenefits. We specialize in making telehealth services accessible to people across the country through our simple subscription system. You’ll have 24/7 access to our network of doctors and specialists and receive unlimited consultations to have all of your health care questions answered and receive the treatment you need. Learn more about our services, or send us a message with any questions you may have.