Telehealth has become a part of the healthcare landscape in recent years, helping accommodate convenience for patients by giving them care without requiring them to leave the comfort of their homes. Telehealth has changed the way healthcare systems all over the world operate, from a GP’s day to the teachings of an RN to FNP program, there is much to consider when weighing up the differences between in-person and telehealth care. As technology concerning telehealth continues to advance, more individuals are willing to consider virtual appointments for their various health needs. However, with this rise in telehealth, many have come to ask the same question: when is a telehealth appointment appropriate, and when is it better to see a doctor in person?
This article will walk you through some factors to consider when choosing between telehealth over in-person appointments to make an appropriate choice concerning your health.
Understanding Telehealth
Telehealth, or telemedicine, is defined as a method of delivering healthcare services to patients through technology such as video conferencing platforms and phones, allowing for remote care. The advantages of telehealth include convenience, accessibility, and time-saving, especially for people in remote areas or who can not attend appointments for any reason. In addition, there is minimal risk of contagious diseases or illness exposure via telehealth, which is especially important for young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised people.
However, there are also several limitations to telehealth. As much as these platforms work for routine consultations, follow-ups, and minor health concerns, they may fall short when it comes to situations where physical examinations, diagnostic tests, or emergency care is required.
In this article, we weigh up the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision deciding which appointment type is best for your situation.
When to Choose Telehealth
Telehealth can be a great avenue for different healthcare scenarios, especially when one desires convenience and quick availability. In follow up appointments, such as to get certain test results, telehealth can be ideal. Similarly, telehealth can be good for patients who need to new prescriptions for medication they take. Mild illnesses such as the common cold can usually also be discussed in a telehealth consultation, as a physical examination is not typically required.
Additionally, telehealth consultations can be beneficial in mental health care. For therapies and counseling where it’s appropriate, being in comfortable home environments with full privacy may be an important factor for many patients.
Understanding In-Person Appointments
While telehealth is growing more mainstream by the day, sometimes there’s simply no substitute for an in-person appointment. Something like a physical exam requires the service provider to apply some form of touch, whether it be to check vital things like blood pressure and heart rate, or to apply pressure and assess an area of concern. Major health concerns such as chest pain also deserve an in-person visit as such conditions usually need immediate and thorough evaluation that can only be done in person.
Moreover, personal appointments are very important in procedures requiring direct contact-for example, vaccinations, blood tests, or surgical interventions. While telehealth may offer several useful preliminary recommendations, some situations may require physical presence to ensure an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Knowing when to see a doctor in person ensures that you get the best possible care for your particular health problem.
When to Choose In-Person Appointments
In-person appointments are necessary in conditions that need physical examinations or hands-on care. If one intends to undergo surgery from minor to major, in-person consultations will be important for proper planning, execution, and follow-up on the operation. Similarly, various diagnostics, such as imaging tests or lab work, may require a visit to a facility with the necessary equipment and professional management.
Severe and unexplained symptoms such as chest pain, continuous headaches, or sudden deteriorations in health require an in-person doctor’s visit to get a proper diagnosis. Such situations require urgent and thorough check ups that are not possible on a screen. These situations involve hands-on treatments such as physical therapy, wound care, and other procedures. Recognizing when telehealth isn’t enough ensures you receive the proper care for your condition.
The appointment type you choose will depend on your specific healthcare needs. Telehealth is incredibly convenient for routine checkups, minor illnesses, and treatment for some ongoing conditions, such as mental health issues. It can also be incredibly beneficial to those who live remotely, who cannot risk exposure to illnesses, and who have an illness they don’t want to pass on to others, but that does not demand in-person care. Situations that call for thorough physical examinations, hands-on procedures, or complex diagnostic testing, however, require you to physically go to a doctor or hospital. If you’re ever unsure, you can always consult the clinic or facility you are visiting and they will be able to advise you as to what your options are.
