Health & Fitness
Is Telehealth The Right Choice For You?
Find out what types of non-urgent medical care you can receive virtually without even having to leave your home.
This post is sponsored and contributed by a Patch Brand Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own.
Telehealth is a plan benefit that makes it easy to access non-urgent medical care any time of day, 365 days a year, from wherever you are — at home, at work or on the go. You can use a computer, mobile device or phone to talk with doctors in primary care, family medicine and more. They can review your history, answer your questions, diagnose and treat medical conditions and prescribe certain medicines.
Telehealth is not suitable for emergency care or hands-on procedures such as blood pressure checks or biometric screenings, and it can't replace the care of your primary doctor. But if you need a doctor's advice and don't want to leave your house, telehealth may be a good option for you.
If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
What Kind Of Care Will You Get With Telehealth?
Telehealth services are available for both everyday care and complex treatment. Non-urgent conditions ranging from colds and allergies to sprains and strains can be treated through virtual visits.
In addition to having a virtual visit with a primary care provider, you can also make telehealth appointments with the following:
Dermatologist — Many providers let you upload photos for review and get a treatment plan and prescription, if needed, for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes and more.
Pediatrician — For non-urgent treatment of conditions such as the flu, pink eye, rashes and much more, you may want to make a virtual appointment with your child’s pediatrician.
Therapist or psychiatrist — With telehealth, you can access mental health support from wherever you're most comfortable.
Registered nutritionist — With telehealth services, you can talk to a registered nutritionist by phone or video for help with staying healthy, eating right or managing a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
In most cases, doctors can review your medical history, diagnose medical conditions and provide non-urgent medical care through a virtual appointment.
Who Can Use Telehealth?
To find out if you're eligible to use telehealth under your current insurance plan, call the number on the back of your member ID card. Depending on your plan, you may be eligible for some telehealth benefits, and you'll be able to find out ahead of your visit whether you have a copay.
How To Have A Successful Telehealth Visit
If you're using an app for your appointment, make sure it's set up and you're able to log in. You'll also want to ensure you have a strong signal on your phone or computer before your virtual visit so that you're able to clearly communicate with your provider.
Most telehealth providers will send you a notification by email or text before your visit is set to begin. It’s recommended to open the app you’re using 10 minutes before the scheduled time of your appointment. Telehealth providers usually have a virtual waiting room where you can check in and let your provider know you're ready to be seen. When the provider joins, you will automatically be connected.
If you are prescribed a medication during your virtual visit, you may be able to have a prescription delivered or arrange a no-contact curbside pickup. If you do pick up a prescription in person, make sure to wear a mask and follow the precautions advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
About EmblemHealth: This article is brought to you by EmblemHealth, one of the nation's largest not-for-profit health insurers, serving more than 3 million people in New York City and the tri-state area. Your safety and health are top priority to EmblemHealth, which is why it remains committed to finding new ways to deliver quality care at affordable prices.
