Telemedicine Specialist

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine uses modern technologies like smartphones, tablets, web cameras, and the internet to diagnose, treat, and provide counseling for acute and chronic medical conditions.

Telemedicine first came onto the scene more than 40 years ago. It exploded in popularity over the last decade. If you’re disabled or live in a rural area, making it to the doctor on a regular basis isn’t always easy. Telemedicine prevents the hassle of travel, ensuring you receive the medical attention you desperately need.

Who can benefit from telemedicine?

Telemedicine is beneficial for patients of all ages and backgrounds. However, it’s especially helpful for people who:

• Lead busy lifestyles
• Have children at home
• Live in rural areas
• Suffer from disabilities

You might also benefit from telemedicine services if you’re already sick or have a compromised immune system. Visiting the doctor in-person increases your risk of exposure, but telemedicine allows you to meet with your provider from the safety of your home.

What happens during a telemedicine appointment?

No two telemedicine appointments are exactly alike. Your NewMed Immediate Care provider tailors treatment to your individual needs.

Usually, a telemedicine consultation begins with a review of your medical history and a discussion of your symptoms and lifestyle. After gathering this information, your provider conducts a physical exam. Although they can’t shine a light in your eyes or look down your throat, they can use their web camera to observe your physical symptoms.

Your provider might also ask you to lie down, stand up, and walk around to observe your gait and posture or have you perform several range-of-motion exercises. Usually, these measures are enough to make a diagnosis, but if further evaluation is necessary, they may request you visit the office for an in-person appointment.

What other services does telemedicine provide?

Besides providing diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic health problems, telemedicine presents an opportunity to ask questions or discuss health concerns and unusual symptoms. If you take medications, your provider can also refill your prescriptions or order laboratory testing.

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of telemedicine, schedule an appointment at NewMed Immediate Care today. Call the office to speak with a team member or book a consultation online.