Telehealth visits in the United States increased from less than 1% of medical visits to up to 80% during the first two months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, telemedicine has remained popular for a variety of important reasons.
Dr. Javier Sosa and our expert team at Woodlands Primary Healthcare, located in The Woodlands, Texas, are pleased to offer telemedicine so you can get needed care when coming into our office isn’t possible.
Here, we explore five benefits you can anticipate if you choose remote care.
1. Ability to get needed care
About 26% of people in the United States have a disability that may interfere with getting around easily. Issues, like chronic pain or a sudden injury, can also make mobility difficult.
Telemedicine allows you to get care or guidance quickly, regardless of the obstacles you’re facing. Rather than attempt to drive or find a ride to our office, you can speak with our team from the comfort of your home.
2. Convenience within a busy schedule
Not everyone can get away from the office or home responsibilities to get medical care. If you have a hectic schedule, telemedicine can provide the convenience of no commute. In some cases, that could save you hours. You could even fit telemedicine into a lunch break and still have time for a meal.
3. Quality care
Telemedicine can’t address all health needs, but it can cover quite a few, such as:
- Analysis of certain skin conditions
- Discussing lab tests or X-ray results
- Consulting and prescriptions for recurring issues, like migraines and urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Medication management
- Mental health care, including online therapy
- Support for common issues, like colds, coughs, and stomach aches
- Post-surgery follow-ups
- Physical therapy and occupational therapy
- Primary care consulting
- Remote monitoring of chronic conditions
- Weight loss support
And in some cases, assessments are more effective from home. Our team might notice factors in your surroundings that could be influencing your well-being — things you may not think to mention in the office.
4. Control of infectious diseases
Whether you’re hoping to avoid getting a cold, flu, or COVID infection or keep it from spreading to others, telemedicine provides a setup devoid of germ transmission. Less exposure can help everyone, particularly those at a higher risk of complications. That includes the elderly, chronically ill, immunocompromised, and pregnant people.
5. Loved one support
When you’re injured, dealing with chronic pain, or feeling sick, the support of a friend or family member can help. Loved ones can boost your morale, help you feel less alone, and ask questions or take notes on your behalf, if needed. With telemedicine, your loved one doesn’t even need to live in the same state. In many cases, you and your loved one can log in from separate devices.
To learn more about telemedicine or get the care you need, call Woodlands Primary Healthcare, located in The Woodlands, Texas, or request an appointment with Dr. Sosa on our website today.
