What Is Telehealth

How to Use Telehealth Services During the COVID-19 Outbreak and Beyond

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Telehealth facilitates care from a distance through electronic information systems. Telemedicine originally delivered care through the telephone system, such as a Dial-a-Nurse line. Today, telehealth encompasses a broad range of electronic delivery systems that include live video chats, mobile health (also called mhealth) apps, online visits, and secure messaging via text or email.

During the current COVID-19 outbreak, many healthcare providers are discouraging people from traveling to a medical office or urgent care facility unless absolutely necessary, since the disease transfers easily from person to person. For mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 or any illness, telehealth services might represent a better, more efficient way to receive initial care.

When Should You Consider Using Telehealth?

Many less-severe symptoms in adults and children—whether related to COVID-19 or not—can be effectively assessed through an initial telehealth visit. These symptoms and conditions include:

  • Canker sores, cold sores, and other mouth lesions
  • Chickenpox (varicella zoster virus)
  • Conjunctivitis (“pink eye”)
  • Common cold, flu, and allergy symptoms
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Coughing
  • Fever
  • Headaches, including migraine
  • Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Insect bites
  • Minor injuries, such as sprains
  • Painful urination
  • Rashes and other skin conditions
  • Sinus pain and pressure
  • Sore throat

If you think you may have symptoms of COVID-19, you can use our printable Doctor Discussion Guide below to help you prepare for your virtual appointment.

Source: verywellhealth.com/

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