Virtual Care and Telehealth Options
- Brandon Larsen
- Oct 27, 2024
- 12 min read
Virtual care, also known as telehealth, has revolutionized how we access healthcare services. It offers a convenient,accessible, and often more affordable way to consult with healthcare providers from the comfort of your own home.
What is Virtual Care/Telehealth?
Virtual care involves using technology, such as video calls, phone calls, or messaging, to connect with healthcare providers remotely. It can be used for various purposes, including:
Routine consultations for minor illnesses or ongoing conditions
Prescription refills
Mental health counseling
Follow-up appointments
Specialist consultations
Benefits of Virtual Care:
Convenience: Avoid travel time and waiting rooms.
Accessibility: Reach healthcare providers even in remote areas.
Affordability: Often less expensive than in-person visits.
Reduced exposure to illness: Especially beneficial during flu season or pandemics.
How to Access Virtual Care:
Check Your Insurance Coverage: Many health insurance plans now cover virtual care visits. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage and any associated costs.
Choose a Virtual Care Provider: Several companies offer virtual care services, catering to various medical specialties. Some popular options include:
General Healthcare:
Teladoc
Amwell
Doctor on Demand
MDLIVE
One Medical (Membership-based primary care)
Carbon Health (Tech-enabled primary care)
Forward (Membership-based primary care with advanced technology)
SteadyMD (Personalized primary care for chronic conditions)
Mental Health:
BetterHelp (Online therapy and counseling)
Talkspace (Online therapy and counseling)
Ginger (Mental health coaching and therapy)
Cerebral (Comprehensive mental health care)
Brightside Health (Depression and anxiety treatment)
Lyra Health (Mental health benefits platform for employers)
Specialty Care:
Oshi Health (Gastroenterology)
Second MD (Second Opinions)
Ro (Men's health)
Hims & Hers (Hair loss, skincare, sexual health)
Dermatology:
Curology (Personalized prescription skincare)
SkyMD (Dermatological consultations and treatments)
First Derm (Confidential online dermatology consultations)
Women's Health:
Maven Clinic (Women's and family health)
Nurx (Contraceptive prescriptions and sexual health)
Tia (Women's health clinics)
Chronic Conditions:
Virta Health (Type 2 diabetes reversal)
Onduo (Diabetes, hypertension, heart failure management)
Propeller Health (Respiratory conditions)
Other Specialties:
98point6 (Primary care and urgent care)
Bicycle Health (Opioid use disorder treatment)
Lemonaid Health (Primary care, men's health, women's health)
Pediatrics:
Anytime Pediatrics (24/7 virtual pediatric care)
Children's Health Virtual Visit (Telemedicine for children)
Urgent Care:
CirrusMD (Text-based virtual urgent care)
DispatchHealth (In-home urgent care)
Zipnosis (Online diagnosis and treatment)
Additional Resources:
Your Health Insurance Provider: Many health insurance companies have their own virtual care platforms or partner with telehealth providers. Check your plan's website or app for details.
Local Hospitals and Health Systems: Many hospitals and health systems offer virtual care services for their patients.
Schedule an Appointment: Most virtual care providers allow you to schedule appointments online or through their app. You may be able to choose a specific provider or select the next available appointment.
Prepare for Your Visit: Gather any relevant medical information, such as your medical history, current medications, and symptoms. Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet, private space for your virtual visit.
Tips for a Successful Virtual Visit:
Test your technology beforehand: Ensure your camera and microphone are working correctly.
Be prepared: Have your medical information and questions ready.
Choose a quiet, private space: Minimize distractions and ensure confidentiality.
Communicate clearly: Speak clearly and be specific about your concerns.
Take notes: Write down any important information or instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Virtual care is a valuable tool for accessing healthcare services conveniently and affordably. By utilizing the resources available and following these tips, you can ensure a successful virtual visit and receive the care you need.
Remember: The best virtual care provider for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, cost, specific services offered, and provider credentials when making your decision.
Found This Helpful?
Share your next steps in the comments below.
Need More Help? Schedule a Consultation with Us at Front Door Healthcare.
Let's talk! We’ll discuss your health goals and concerns. While we don’t dispense medical advice or care, we'll help you with:
Personalized Appointments - We'll guide you to the right medical providers, considering your preferences, budget, and quality of care.
Cost-Savings - Get assistance in finding affordable treatments, medications, and healthcare services without compromising your care plan.
Insurance & Billing Guidance - We’ll help you navigate insurance options, appeals, and billing questions, so you can focus on your health.
Meet Nguyen:
Nguyen had always been a bit hesitant about visiting the doctor's office. The sterile environment, the long wait times, and the sometimes uncomfortable procedures made him feel anxious and uneasy. With the rise of virtual care, or telehealth, Nguyen found a way to address his healthcare needs without having to step foot in a physical clinic.
He had tried a variety of virtual care providers, from general healthcare platforms like Teladoc and Amwell to specialized services like Oshi Health for his occasional digestive issues. He even consulted a virtual dermatologist through SkyMD when he developed a mysterious rash.
For the most part, Nguyen had positive experiences with virtual care. He appreciated the convenience of being able to schedule appointments quickly and easily, often with same-day availability. He also enjoyed the comfort of consulting with doctors from his own home, avoiding the hassle of travel and waiting rooms.
One particular instance stood out in Nguyen's mind. He had been experiencing persistent headaches and fatigue, and his primary care physician was booked solid for weeks. Frustrated and seeking a quick solution, he turned to PlushCare, an online primary care and urgent care provider.
He scheduled a virtual appointment and was connected with a licensed doctor within minutes. The doctor listened attentively as Nguyen described his symptoms and medical history. He then asked a series of clarifying questions, ruling out any serious underlying conditions.
The doctor diagnosed Nguyen with tension headaches, a common condition often caused by stress and muscle tension. He recommended over-the-counter pain relievers, stress management techniques, and regular exercise to help manage the headaches. He also suggested that Nguyen follow up with his primary care physician for a more comprehensive evaluation if the headaches persisted.
Nguyen was impressed by the doctor's thoroughness and professionalism. He felt reassured by the diagnosis and appreciated the practical advice he received. The virtual visit was efficient and effective, and he was able to get the care he needed without having to leave his home.
Another time, Nguyen experienced a bout of severe heartburn after indulging in a spicy meal. He didn't want to go to the emergency room, but the pain was intense, and he needed relief. He remembered Oshi Health, a virtual GI clinic he had used in the past for digestive issues.
He quickly scheduled a virtual consultation with a gastroenterologist, who listened to his symptoms and reviewed his medical history. The gastroenterologist suspected acid reflux and recommended an over-the-counter proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce stomach acid production and alleviate the heartburn. He also advised Nguyen to avoid trigger foods and make some lifestyle changes to improve his digestive health.
Nguyen followed the gastroenterologist's recommendations and experienced significant relief from his heartburn within a few days. He was grateful for the prompt and effective treatment he received through Oshi Health and appreciated the specialist's expertise in addressing his specific digestive concerns.
Through his various experiences with virtual care, Nguyen had become a strong advocate for telehealth. He found it to be a valuable tool for managing his healthcare needs, especially for minor illnesses, prescription refills, and follow-up appointments. He also appreciated the cost savings and convenience of virtual visits, which allowed him to prioritize his health without disrupting his busy schedule.
While Nguyen recognized that in-person visits were still necessary for certain conditions or procedures, he believed that virtual care was the future of healthcare. He was excited to see how technology would continue to evolve and expand access to quality healthcare for people like him who preferred the convenience and comfort of their own homes.
Additional Details:
When you don't feel well but don't want to go all the way to the doctor's office, Telehealth is a great option. Telehealth is like having a doctor visit you from your phone or computer!
Here's how it works:
Video Call: You use a video call app on your phone or computer, just like a video chat with a friend or family member.
See the Doctor: Instead of your friend, you see a doctor or nurse on the screen. They can ask you questions about how you're feeling and see you close up.
Just Like Being There: The doctor can listen to your heart and lungs with special tools they attach to your phone or computer (with your grown-up's help, of course!).
Medicine, Labs, and Imaging: If you need medicine, the doctor can send a prescription straight to a pharmacy near you, so you don't have to wait! If your symptoms warrant further investigation, your doctor can electronically order lab tests or imaging studies, like X-rays or ultrasounds. This can save you time and trips to separate facilities. The doctor can then review the results with you during a follow-up telehealth appointment or request an in-person visit if needed. This extended reach of telehealth makes it an even more efficient and effective solution for managing your health.
Here are some examples of when a telehealth visit might be a good idea:
Feeling crummy, but not awful: Think things like a cough, cold, earache, or sore throat. These are all common issues that doctors can often address over a video call.
Pink Eye: Also known as conjunctivitis, is when your eye turns pink or red because the thin layer lining your eyelid and eyeball (conjunctiva) gets inflamed or infected. It can be itchy, gritty, watery, or uncomfortable with a white discharge. You may wake up with your eye lashes stuck together.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): If you're experiencing UTI symptoms like burning urination or frequent urination, a telehealth visit can be a convenient way to get a diagnosis and potentially a prescription for antibiotics.
Allergies: Do you have allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, or itchy eyes? Telehealth can help connect you with a doctor who can assess your symptoms and recommend treatment options.
Sinus Infections: Feeling congested and miserable with a sinus infection? Telehealth can be a way to get a diagnosis and potentially a prescription for medication to help you feel better.
Mental Health:
Anxiety and Stress: Telehealth can connect you with therapists or counselors who can provide support and coping mechanisms for managing anxiety and stress.
Depression: If you're feeling down or hopeless, a telehealth visit with a mental health professional can be a first step towards getting help and feeling better.
Dermatology (Skin Conditions):
Rashes: Concerned about a strange rash? Telehealth allows a doctor to get a close look at your skin and recommend treatment without an in-person visit.
Acne: If you're struggling with acne, a telehealth visit can connect you with a dermatologist who can develop a personalized treatment plan.
Need a prescription refill: Ran out of your allergy meds? Telehealth can help you get a refill quickly without an extra trip to the doctor.
Follow-up visits: If you've already seen a doctor for something and just need a quick check-in, a telehealth visit can save you time.
Here's when a trip to the doctor's office might be a better idea:
Serious Injuries: If you have a broken bone, deep cut, or any situation where you might need stitches or tests like X-rays, you'll need to see the doctor in person. Telehealth can't fix those!
Sudden or Severe Symptoms: For things like sudden, severe pain, trouble breathing, or high fever, it's best to see a doctor right away for a full check-up. They might need to listen to your lungs or heart with special tools they can't use through a video call.
Physical Exams: Telehealth isn't great for check-ups where the doctor needs to listen to your whole body, check your reflexes, or give you shots. These require an in-person visit.
No Technology or Privacy: Don't have a phone or computer, or worried someone might hear your conversation?Telehealth might not be the best option. An in-person visit ensures privacy and allows the doctor to see you clearly.
Whether you have to pay for an in-person visit after an unsuccessful telehealth appointment depends on a few factors:
Reason for Follow-up Visit: If the telehealth appointment identified a need for further examination or treatment that can't be done virtually, your insurance might cover the in-person visit as a related follow-up.
Insurance Coverage: Each insurance plan has its own rules about telehealth coverage and follow-up visits. It's best to check your plan's specific guidelines.
Initial Telehealth Visit Reason: If the in-person visit is to address a completely new issue not discussed during the telehealth appointment, it might be considered a separate visit with a separate copay or deductible.
Here are some steps you can take to avoid unexpected charges:
Ask During Telehealth Appointment: If the doctor suggests a follow-up visit during the telehealth appointment, clarify if it would be billed as a separate in-person visit or a related follow-up.
Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call your insurance company and explain the situation. Ask if your plan covers follow-up visits after telehealth consultations and what the potential costs might be.
Talk to Your Doctor's Office: They might be able to advise you on how to code the in-person visit to maximize insurance coverage based on the reason for the follow-up.
Same Doctor, Same Visit:
Generally No Extra Charge: If you have a telehealth appointment with your doctor and it turns out you need to be seen in person to address your issue, typically there wouldn't be an additional charge for the in-person visit on the same day. It would essentially be considered an extension of your initial telehealth consultation.
Same Doctor, Different Day:
Possible Charge: If your telehealth appointment wasn't conclusive and you need to schedule a separate in-person visit on a different day, there might be a charge associated with the in-person visit. This depends on your insurance plan.
Different Doctor (Same Health System):
Possible Charge: If the telehealth appointment wasn't helpful and you need to see a different doctor within the same health system for an in-person visit, there might be a separate charge depending on your insurance plan.
Here's how your insurance plan can affect the cost:
Telehealth Coverage: Check your insurance plan to see if it covers telehealth visits. Some plans only cover in-person visits.
Copays and Deductibles: Even with coverage, you might have a copay for both the telehealth visit and the in-person visit, depending on your plan design. You might also need to meet a deductible before your insurance kicks in and starts covering costs.
Tips to Minimize Costs:
Call Your Doctor's Office: If you're unsure after a telehealth appointment whether you need an in-person visit, call your doctor's office and explain the situation. They might be able to advise you over the phone or schedule a quick follow-up telehealth appointment to avoid an unnecessary in-person visit.
Insurance Coverage: Familiarize yourself with your health insurance plan's coverage for telehealth and in-person visits, including copays and deductibles. This way, you'll have a better idea of what costs to expect.
While traditional telehealth connects you with general practitioners who can address a wide range of issues, some companies are carving out niches by specializing in specific diseases. Here's how this specialization works:
Tailored Care Teams:
Disease-Specific Expertise: These companies assemble teams of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who are well-versed in managing a particular disease, like diabetes, heart failure, or chronic pain. This allows them to provide more targeted care plans and advice compared to a general telehealth provider.
Standardized Treatment Protocols: They often develop standardized treatment protocols based on the latest clinical guidelines and best practices for the specific disease. This ensures consistency and quality of care across patients.
Data-Driven Approach: Many leverage technology and data analytics to monitor patient progress, identify trends,and adjust treatment plans as needed. This data-driven approach can lead to more personalized care.
Benefits of Disease-Specific Telehealth:
Improved Outcomes: By focusing on one disease area, these companies can potentially improve patient outcomes through focused treatment plans and close monitoring.
Convenience and Accessibility: Telehealth consultations from the comfort of home can increase access to care for people who might have difficulty traveling to see specialists in person.
Patient Education and Support: These companies might offer educational resources and support groups specifically tailored to the disease, empowering patients to manage their condition more effectively.
Here are some examples of how disease-specific telehealth works:
Diabetes Management: A telehealth company specializing in diabetes might offer consultations with diabetic educators, remote monitoring of blood sugar levels, and personalized guidance on nutrition and exercise.
Cardiovascular Care: A company focused on heart health could provide consultations with cardiologists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and cardiac rehabilitation programs delivered virtually.
Mental Health Services: Telehealth companies specializing in mental health can connect patients with therapists experienced in treating specific conditions like anxiety or depression, often with features for online therapy sessions and progress tracking.
Important Considerations:
Insurance Coverage: Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover services from disease-specific telehealth companies.
Integration with Primary Care: Ensure the telehealth service complements your care from your primary care physician.
Technology Requirements: Some telehealth platforms might require specific equipment or have technical limitations.
Telehealth has emerged as a powerful tool in the healthcare landscape, offering a convenient and accessible way to manage a wide range of health concerns. From routine check-ups to chronic disease management and mental health support, telehealth can provide effective care without the need for lengthy commutes or time spent waiting in a doctor's office.
Whether you're dealing with a common cold, a pesky rash, or need to chat with a therapist, telehealth offers a safe and secure platform for connecting with qualified healthcare professionals. While it shouldn't replace in-person visits for everything, telehealth can be a valuable addition to your healthcare toolkit. So next time you're feeling under the weather or need some medical advice, consider giving telehealth a try. You might be surprised at how well it fits your needs.
Found This Helpful?
Share your next steps in the comments below.
Need More Help? Schedule a Consultation with Us at Front Door.
Let's talk! We’ll discuss your health goals and concerns. While we don’t dispense medical advice or care, we'll help you:
Create a Plan for Your Healthcare Journey: We will assist you in understanding your care options and your health plan benefits. We will also help you develop a healthcare plan that aligns with your goals and budget.
Find the Right Provider: We will help you use different tools to find and connect you with the right provider in the right care setting to deliver the best care for your needs.
Navigate the Scheduling Process: We can assist you in booking appointments that fit your schedule.
Understand Your Costs: We can help you find cost estimates based on your benefits for the care options you are interested in pursuings.
Comments