As the world leans more into a virtual lifestyle and technology changes how people interact and carry out daily routines, it’s no surprise telemedicine is becoming the new normal. Doctors and patients alike are adapting to a rapidly-changing world, showcasing new trends that could very well stay in a post-pandemic world.
What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine is the use of technology to virtually deliver patient care and clinical services. Doctors can remotely see their patients through telecommunications services and treat patients from afar.
How is it different from telehealth?
Telehealth is the broad term used to give a scope of remote healthcare services. Telemedicine is specific to the clinical services provided.
How can Telemedicine help you?
- More convenient doctor’s visits.
Patients have the freedom to check in with their doctors from wherever they may be. They no longer have to be in certain locations.
- Improves safety and social distancing
As many locations are prolonging their social distancing guidelines, telehealth allows patients to safely access their doctors with virtual visits. Patients and health providers and staff alike can rest easy knowing that telemedicine is helping eliminate contact between people and curbing the spread of the virus.
- Expands access to doctors
While virtual doctor visits may be convenient and safe, they also allow for expanded medical access to those who may have previously struggled to get it. Patients no longer have to travel great lengths to visit specialists or hospitals or worry about transportation or mobility issues when it comes to seeing their doctors or health providers. Telemedicine is encouraged under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
What can you expect on your virtual visit?
Your virtual visit is just like your regular appointment, but you will need to be sure you have the right setup prior to meeting with your doctor.
- Confirm your insurance provider covers telemedicine visits under your plan. While many states required insurance providers to cover virtual doctor appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic, some are not covering telehealth visits. It doesn’t hurt to double-check.
- Ask your doctor’s office if you will need to use or create an account for a special application or portal for your visit.
- Prepare for your telemedicine visit by having a written list of your symptoms and keep a pen and piece of paper nearby to take notes .
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a quiet, well-lit space. Nothing is worse than your internet going out or something interrupting you during your visit.
- Fully charge the phone, tablet, or laptop you are using for your visit or make sure it is plugged in beforehand.
- Double-check that the camera on your phone, tablet, or laptop being used for the visit is working and directed to you.
- Remember to look at the camera when talking to your doctor as you would look at them when face-to-face.
- During your visit, your doctor may ask questions about how your eyes are feeling, and if you experience any fluctuating vision, eye sensitivities, blurred vision or discomfort. Prepare for this by considering your answers so they’re not lost in the moment.
Looking for other ways to stay on top of your health care routines between visits?
Create a complete eye care routine to help you stay on top of your eye health between visits. Treat dry eye symptoms with the Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress. This simple therapy takes just 10 minutes and only requires a microwave to heat. The Bruder compress is more effective than other moist heat compresses, like washcloths, as the heat is concentrated right on the eyes. The Bruder Hygienic Eyelid Cleansing Wipes improves eye hygiene by removing excess oils and debris from eyelids and lashes.
These at-home eye care products are quick and convenient for those of all ages to add to their daily regimens. Stock up on these products today.
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Warm compress for the treatment of dry eye, blepharitis and other eye irritations.
