Virtual Visits
What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine involves the use of electronic communications and software to provide clinical services to patients without an in-person visit. Telemedicine is frequently used for follow-up visits, management of chronic conditions, medication management, consultation and other clinical services that can be provided remotely via secure video and audio connections. It can be used via a laptop computer, tablet, or smart phone.
Patients enjoy:
-
Less time away from work
-
No travel expenses or time
-
Less interference with child or elder care responsibilities
-
Privacy
-
No exposure to other potentially contagious patients
Privacy and Security
Because patient data will be transmitted when telemedicine is used, it is subject to HIPAA regulations. Consumer video services like Skype and Facetime do not meet this standard. Premiere General Medicine uses a platform with data encryption to protect your patient data.
When to use telemedicine
While many conditions can be treated via telemedicine, these conditions are an especially good fit for telemedicine:
-
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
-
Otitis media
-
Rashes
-
Diabetes
-
Some types of Mental illness/behavioral health
-
Prevention and wellness services
-
Consultations and questions
Telemedicine should not be used for any condition where an in-person exam is required because of severe symptoms, certain protocol-driven procedures, or aggressive interventions. Also, for a medical emergency patients should go to the ER or call 911.
Ultimately, though, healthcare providers may use their professional judgement to decide when telemedicine is appropriate.
For more information about telemedicine, visit https://evisit.com/resources/what-is-telemedicine/.