WHEN YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A VIRTUAL VISIT

Staying connected with your primary care provider is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Studies show that people who prioritize primary care improve their overall health, lower their medical costs, and can identify future health needs.

Life can get busy, and making time for a doctor’s visit doesn’t always make the top of the priority list. That’s where virtual visits come in. “A virtual visit is the perfect option for both health and convenience,” said Dr. Jason Taffet, a primary care provider at Houston Methodist West Hospital. Taffet explains the benefits of virtual visits and when they are appropriate.

Benefits Of A Virtual Visit

There are a variety of advantages to a virtual visit, including:

■ Comfort and convenience. A virtual visit allows you to see the doctor from the comfort of your home — from your bed, couch or kitchen.

■ Control of infectious illness. A virtual visit can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19 or the flu while allowing you to visit and receive treatment from your doctor.

■ Reduced cost. Primary care is less expensive than specialty and urgent care, ER visits and hospitalizations.

■ Increased Accessibility. Virtual visits take the stress out of travel if you live in a remote area or have difficulty traveling to see a doctor in person.

■ Improved continuity of care. Virtual visits allow you to stay in regular contact with your doctor, which keeps you in better health.

When To Schedule A Virtual Visit

1. Minor symptoms: If you are experiencing minor symptoms, such as a cold, cough or mild rash, a virtual visit will allow you to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan from home.

2 . L ack of availability of in-person appointments: If you cannot schedule an in-person appointment with your doctor due to a busy schedule or long wait times, a virtual visit is a good option.

3 . Travel restrictions: If you are traveling within Texas and need medical attention, a virtual visit is a convenient way to see your doctor without leaving your hotel room or fiding a local doctor.

4. Prescreening before an in-person visit: If you are experiencing symptoms and are not sure if you need to see a doctor, a virtual visit will help you determine if an in-person visit is necessary.

5. Follow-up visits: If you have already received care in person and need a follow-up visit, with a virtual visit you can see your doctor without having to leave your home.

“It is important to note that virtual visits are not appropriate for all medical conditions and may not be able to replace an in-person visit in all cases,” Taffet emphasized. “If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening medical condition, you should seek medical attention in person.” •

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