Getting out of your house, into your car, and driving to your doctor for a check-up of symptoms you have been feeling for the last few days can be so tiring and time-consuming. Some of us put off going to the doctor because of this very reason, and other times, some of us simply don’t have the time or means to. This can lead to people looking up medical advice online, which is not always the best idea as looking up your symptoms online can lead to a spiraling frenzy of panic because the internet always leads to the worst possible scenario.
In light of such constraints, it is best to get an online medical consultation with a doctor. In the light of Covid, several telehealth and telemedicine platforms have cropped up. These platforms offer online consultations with a consulting doctor and online diagnostic testing like blood tests and X-rays. Some advanced platforms also offer minor procedures, but these are rare and few in-between.
A consultation with a doctor refers to approaching a professional for advice or opinion, which is followed up with a report of findings. The patient goes to the doctor with a completed medical history form that will help them understand their medical history and concerns. The medical consultation may end with a discussion of symptoms that lead to a diagnosis, or it will require additional diagnostic testing tools such as an x-ray or an ultrasound to get to a conclusion.
Once a doctor understands what your condition is and ascertains your needs, they will discuss it with you and come up with a specific plan of action. Additionally, the consult will end with any further questions you have, scheduling your treatment, and taking care of the financial and policy details with the support staff. The benefits of consultation are numerous. On the other hand, there are some added benefits of online medical consultations with niche-specific consulting doctors that have been discussed below.
Quick and Prompt: The biggest advantage of going for a medical consultation online is that travel time is reduced. You do not have to take the time to get out of the house - which is a task in itself - and drive yourself to the clinic.
Furthermore, online consultations also erase waiting times, as you do not have to wait for your turn at the clinic or wait for the doctor to come in for your appointment. Instead of waiting around, you can submit your medical history information on secure forms at any time during the day and wait for a response from the medical team you have contacted.
Online consulting doctors are often available around the clock. If you suddenly feel unwell in the middle of the night and are at a complete loss for what to do, an online consultation can provide you quick answers - and they will be the correct ones for sure. On the other hand, in traditional settings waiting periods can be long - as long as weeks. This is less than ideal for people who have persistent and acute symptoms. It also creates anxiety for the patient.
This service is also excellent for those who are very old and frail, and cannot travel but need to see the doctor. In addition, it is an excellent alternative for people who have mobility problems.
Anonymity: Sometimes, health issues can be embarrassing. Many of us may not feel comfortable talking about private health issues in front of other people, even if it is a doctor.
Additionally, some health subjects like sexual health tend to be taboo and shameful for people which is why they may avoid talking about them. This can be very dangerous and unhealthy.
When you choose online medical consultations, you choose to talk to a doctor from the comfort of your own home - being in familiar surroundings can be a great motivator as it makes people feel at ease. You need to be relaxed and at ease when you are talking about your problems, clearly indicating what the symptoms are and what your concerns are.
There is a degree of anonymity with online consultations, especially when they happen over audio calls. This allows you to talk about your issues freely.
No Limitations: This is especially beneficial for people who live in remote areas and need access to a good doctor - you can consult one from anywhere in the country.
Easy prescriptions: The doctor will prescribe you medicine remotely, and as an added benefit they send your prescription to a pharmacy near you and you can pick it up on a convenient day and time.
