How to get virtual medical treatment under quarantine

When you need to venture out, you live outside the home or respect the required six feet away from others. But you do some insertion and notice the dry throat. Is it just seasonal allergies, or is it more likely? With the ongoing public health crisis, you now want to see the last location of the doctor's office or emergency room. What is your second choice to take care of your health needs and check your symptoms?

Virtual doctor visits are the solution to this. Also known as telehealth or telemedicine, virtual doctor appointments can save you money and time (since you don't have to travel), as well as help you avoid contact with others (or contact them with you).

If you've never heard or considered a visit to a virtual doctor, setting up your first appointment can seem daunting. But don't stress. We're going to get you your virtual consultation and how to answer the most common telehealth questions.

The most frequently asked questions for an online doctor appointment
How do I set up a virtual appointment?
Make an online doctor appointment quick and easy by following these steps:

Make sure you have your insurance card.
Contact your doctor's office through your website (or phone).
Sign in (or create) an online account on your provider's website.
If necessary, answer medical information, including your visit and medical history.
Set your appointment day and time. You will need to pay for your trip at the scheduled time or on an appointment date.
How much does an online doctor spend?
According to telehealth provider VSee, virtual visits typically cost between $ 40 and $ 50. However, the cost of visiting an online physician may vary depending on your insurance coverage. Virtual visits are less expensive than office visits because your health care providers are saving money on not seeing patients in person.

How do virtual visits save money? According to The Dallas Morning News, "Telemedicine saves high demand masks, gowns and key supplies to combat the epidemic, as well as saving patients transportation costs and waiting time in the office."

How can doctors check my vital signs during a telehealth appointment?
While the doctor may not be able to physically take your blood pressure or check your heart rate, there are other ways to assess your energy during a virtual tour. For example, your doctor may take you through these home procedures to check your heart rate.

How does telehealth travel affect my HIPAA rights?
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, protects your health data, medical records and anyone who can access them. Telehealth visits are no different, whether online or over the phone. Any information discussed in the appointment of a virtual physician is preserved in the same way as an office visit.

What type of medical condition is best suited for virtual counseling?
Doctor. According to UnitedHealthcare's interview with Paul Fenwes, primary caretaker physician at Cornell, United Virtual Doctor's appointment "may be an excellent use for telemedicine as a first-line treatment-or-triage for serious conditions." General cases can be handled immediately by telemedicine, but patients with more difficult conditions may be given an office visit or referred to the emergency department. "

Most importantly, if you have features that usually motivate you to schedule a trip to the office, then a virtual trip is a good option. If you need immediate medical help or a medical emergency, you should call 911.

Are there any smartphone apps I can use to visit a virtual doctor?
Yes. From pediatrics to mental health apps, there are many high-end apps that you can access from your smartphone. Your health care network may have their own website and apps they recommend.

Need to upgrade your internet while at home? During the COVID-19 crisis many Internet service providers committed Americans to a pledge of connection. Check out the Resource Center for more updates and follow our experts on Facebook and Twitter for updates.