Telehealth

What is telehealth?

Telehealth, or telemedicine, uses technologies like smartphones, tablets, and computers to exchange medical information securely over the Internet. It lets you meet with your doctor or another healthcare provider from your home, office, or anywhere convenient.

Telehealth has been around for decades. However, it exploded in popularity in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, many people were forced to shelter in place but still needed healthcare. Telehealth bridged the gap, making it easy to receive various medical services. 

What are the benefits of telehealth?

Telehealth provides several benefits.

First, it lets you meet with doctors and other medical specialists from anywhere. All you need is an internet connection and a smartphone or web camera. If you travel frequently, scheduling preventive care can be challenging. Telehealth makes it easy to stay on top of routine checkups. 

Second, telehealth is convenient. For example, if you have children or care for an elderly loved one, finding a babysitter or substitute caretaker isn’t always easy. Because telehealth lets you meet with your doctor from anywhere, you don’t have to leave home or completely change your schedule.

Lastly, telehealth saves you time and hassle. You don’t have to worry about fighting traffic, finding parking, or sitting in a crowded waiting room. Simply log in to the telehealth portal a few minutes before your appointment and get instant access to your doctor.

What happens during a telehealth appointment?

Bowman Family Medicine Clinic, LLC tailors telehealth appointments to each person’s needs. Even so, most visits feature the same approach.

First, your provider reviews your medical records and asks about the reason for your visit. Then, they complete a telehealth exam. 

For instance, if you have a cough or a sore throat, your provider might listen to your cough or have you open your mouth wide and point your web camera at the back of your throat. Most exams can be conducted virtually, but if you need lab testing or diagnostic imaging, your provider might ask you to visit the office in person.

After gathering the necessary information, your Bowman Family Medicine Clinic, LLC provider makes personalized treatment recommendations. For example, they can provide a refill if you’ve run out of prescription medication or develop a recovery plan if you’ve suffered a sports injury, like an ankle sprain.

Call Bowman Family Medicine Clinic, LLC, to schedule a telehealth appointment, or book one online today.