Online doctor consultations are quickly becoming a popular alternative to in-person healthcare. Doctors and patients alike appreciate the convenience of consulting with someone over the internet for medical advice, prescriptions and more. While online doctor consultations have been around for a few years now, many people still do not realize their many benefits.
Up to this point, the main criticism of online doctor consultations is that they don’t offer the same experience or quality of an in-person visit. The truth is, many people use telehealth services and receive many of the same benefits as with an in-person visit. In fact, there are even benefits to this service that you can’t get from an in-person visit. If you’re new to online doctor consultations, here are five reasons to consider one for your next appointment.
More Convenient and Flexible
Online doctor consultations are more convenient and flexible in comparison to traditional doctor consultations. For instance, you can schedule an appointment without having to worry about timing to get there, or the location. Booking an online doctor consultation makes it easier for people to get treatment without taking time off work or going through the hassle of finding childcare if they have children at home.
You can also do your consultation right from the comfort of your bed or couch, and even have someone take part alongside you. Being able to access online doctors at a time that is convenient for you is what makes this option so convenient. You can schedule a consultation without any hassle, which is especially helpful when you’re sick and need immediate help.
Get Your Medical Questions Answered Anytime
One of the reasons most people opt for online doctor consultations is that they can get their medical questions answered anytime. Doctors are available 24/7 to answer any queries and provide you with a diagnosis of your symptoms and guidance on managing those symptoms. Doctors can also prescribe medication and recommend physical therapy for orthopedic conditions and injuries, if necessary.
Online doctors are also private, as they allow for consultations to take place at a time that is best for you. For people who work shift work or for new moms with questions about their babies at odd hours of the day, online consultations are perfect. Doctors will review any existing health records before they start talking with you, and follow-up can be done from the comfort of your own home.
Doctors Are Highly Qualified
Some people may be concerned about the qualifications of the doctors who offer online consultations. All online doctors have been vetted by their state’s licensing board and are qualified to make recommendations about your diagnosis or treatment. In fact, many of the doctors available online are the same doctors millions of patients trust every day in hospitals and clinics across the country. These highly qualified doctors are simply now offering consultations online.
Many doctors specialize in certain conditions or areas of medicine. These qualifications will be noted so you can choose the best option for you. Often, doctors are available to answer questions within minutes through secure online chat systems. This is especially helpful for people who need care, but don’t want the hassle of waiting hours in a hospital or clinic.
More Affordable Than Traditional Care
Online consultations are a more affordable option than in-person appointments. Not to mention, many insurance plans now cover online doctor visits under your deductible or co-pay amounts. Check with your employer to find out what their health care plan covers before deciding for yourself. In most cases, however, you don’t even need insurance to have a doctor visit online. You just need to pay the physician’s consultation fee, typically between $25 and $65, for a 15- to 30-minutes session.
Compare this to an in-person appointment, which can cost up to $200 for a visit. Online consultations are only a fraction of the price. Not to mention the cost of transportation, parking and childcare associated with in-person visits. Many people only visit a doctor to have a prescription refilled, which can be costly and time-consuming. Online consultations change that. You can just talk to your doctor about your condition, and they will provide you with the necessary information to take care of it.
Medical Specialists Are Available
Sometimes, finding a medical specialist for your needs can be challenging. In some cases, you might not even know what type of specialist you need to find. Other times, it’s hard to get an appointment with the available specialists in your area. With online doctor consultations, finding a medical specialist for your condition is simple. You’ll be able to search by specialty or location and then make an appointment at a time convenient to you.
Online Doctor Consultations Are the Future
With fewer doctors available for growing populations, online doctor consultations are becoming an important tool to help patients get the care they need. Online doctor consultations are also great for uninsured people who can’t afford to see their own personal physician, as well as patients with conditions requiring frequent medical attention.
Overall, online doctors allow for more timely preventative screenings and checkups, better access to healthcare for more people, and cost-savings for everyone involved. The future of healthcare is moving towards home diagnostics, and it’s no surprise why.