COVID-19 has put telemedicine in the spotlight as a safe and efficient way to receive healthcare. 
For some, it is a welcome alternative to visiting a doctor’s office because of its convenience. It eliminates travel, saving patients time and money, and physical contact with others.
Telemedicine isn’t just for the tech-savvy, either. It’s as simple as logging into a computer using fast and reliable internet from Chariton Valley, opening a video chat link provided by your healthcare provider and getting the medical advice and prescriptions you need from the comfort of your home.
Does Your Family Doctor Offer Telemedicine?
If you have a family doctor, contact the office to see if telemedicine is offered. When possible, it’s a good idea to stick with a doctor who knows you, your medical history and has access to your files, charts and pharmacy information. This ensures that you are getting the best, most consistent care from a physician who is familiar with your health and with whom you feel comfortable.
Ask your primary care physician if the practice has an online patient portal. This system functions similarly to email but offers the privacy and security necessary for relaying sensitive medical information and data.
Types of Telemedicine
Some patient portals allow you to video chat with a doctor or nurse from the comfort of your home. Other online portals allow for web-based consultation, which means you click through a questionnaire about your symptoms. This type of assessment is perfect for those with minor medical issues who don’t need an in-person visit.
If your primary care physician is part of an extensive medical network like a hospital, chances are they have a well-established, secure online system. In this case, a patient portal acts as a one-stop-shop for your medical needs, allowing you to consult with specialists inside the existing framework.
But even if your primary care provider doesn’t have an integrated care system, they may still conduct appointments via a video conferencing software.
What You Need to Access Telemedicine
Advances in technology have changed our lives for the better. But to reap the benefits that telemedicine offers, you need to be able to access those services. With Chariton Valley’s reliable and high-speed fiber internet, you never have to worry about losing connection with your healthcare provider, even in rural settings.
Now more than ever, it’s crucial to stay healthy and look after ourselves. And since you can remotely access medical services, there’s no reason to avoid professional care and assessment. Healthcare is just a click away with telemedicine, and a good internet connection is the vehicle that gets you there. Contact Chariton Valley for more information.
Speeds not available in all areas. Contact us for complete details.
