You’ve probably heard the words telehealth and virtual care by now. A video visit is a type of telehealth, and it’s just what it sounds like: doctor’s visits over video.
If you’ve ever video-chatted with friends or family, it’s a lot like that. All you need is a secure internet connection and phone, tablet or desktop computer to connect with your doctor.
If your doctor decides your next visit should be over video, here’s what to expect (and why we think you’ll love it).
Many doctor’s visits can be video visits.
Almost any primary care or specialty appointment that doesn’t require a physical exam can be done over video. This includes care for:
- Chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma and high blood pressure
- Follow-up care
- New problems
Video visits are just like in-person visits.
No, really – they are! You’ll get the same personalized care you get in person, from a provider who knows you. The only difference is you and your provider meet face-to-face on a screen, instead of in an office. You may even find it’s easier to relax and open up about how you’re feeling from the comfort of home.
You’ll be able to see, hear and talk to each other. You can ask questions, talk about concerns, go over changes to your care plan and get prescriptions, if necessary – all without ever leaving your couch.
Almost anyone can have a video visit.
Adults and children of any age can have a video visit (Infants 6 weeks and under with COVID type symptoms must be see in the office).
Video visits make it easy for you.
It’s not just easy – it’s convenient and comfortable, too. There’s no need to drive to your doctor’s office, so no worries about traffic or bad weather. All you need to do is find a cozy spot in your house and start your visit.
Video visits are really safe.
Video visits are totally secure and follow HIPAA privacy guidelines, so you can feel as confident as if you were inside your doctor’s office. Only you, your provider, and people either of you have invited can participate in your video visit.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about traveling or being in a crowded waiting room with people who are sick. This can help reduce your exposure to COVID-19 and other easily spread illnesses.
Video visits are as affordable as in-person visits.
Your insurance will be billed for a video visit as if you were going to an in-office visit.
You’ll still need in-person care sometimes.
There’s a lot of care we can provide over video, but you’ll still need to come in person for physical exams or to get blood drawn. Your doctor might also want you to get lab work before or after your video visit. If so, they’ll order it for you to schedule.
Sometimes during your video visit, your doctor will decide it’s best to see you in person. If this happens, you won’t be charged for the video visit.
Technical problems can be avoided.
At this point, you’ve probably had a video call that didn’t go so smoothly. We can help you avoid the most common technical problems.
Here are steps you need to take before every visit:
- Test your microphone and video connection
- Make sure you’re connected to the internet
- Allow your device to use your camera and microphone
- Turn your volume up
Of course, sometimes glitches happen. If you have any trouble with your video visit, your provider will help you fix it and make sure you get the care you need.
You can even use video visits like you would use Urgent Care.
In addition to scheduled visits with your doctor, we offer video visits with Urgent Care providers. Available 24/7, no appointment is needed for Urgent Care video visits. You can get immediate care for minor conditions like:
- Cold, flu or COVID-19-like symptoms
- Seasonal allergies
- Pink eye
- UTIs
Learn more about Urgent Care video visits.
Could your next doctor’s appointment be a video visit? Call your doctor’s office to schedule and see if it’s right for you.
