Have You Used Telehealth?

Telehealth services are convenient and easy to use

Taking advantage of virtual care services to manage your health care can be a good option. Also known as telehealth or telemedicine, virtual care is widely available.

Virtual care visits are similar to in-person visits with your doctor or another member of your health care team.

These online visits and options have many advantages, especially if you are looking to save time or prefer to stay home if possible to avoid any potential exposure to viruses and other contagious conditions.

At Scripps, several telehealth options are available for patients, from wellness and follow-up visits to consultations and on-demand acute care visits. All you need is a MyScripps account and a mobile phone, tablet or computer.

What is telehealth?

The term telemedicine, or telehealth, refers to the use of telecommunications technology — such as mobile health apps and video conferencing — to quickly connect patients with health care providers or services. For example, you might use an app on your smart phone to have a real-time video visit with a provider or answer a few questions to get a diagnosis and treatment plan via email — all from the comfort of your own home or another convenient location.

“Telehealth options have expanded significantly due to the pandemic, making it safe, efficient and easy for patients to get the care they need when and where it is most convenient,” says David Wetherhold, MD, chief medical information officer for ambulatory care at Scripps Health.

“Anything where the provider can assess quick visual cues and can access relevant vital signs or other information online is a good fit for virtual care,” Dr. Wetherhold says. “Patients are connected with their provider in a seamless, time-friendly manner and receive the same high level of care and attention they would in an in-person visit.”

Patients may be surprised at how many conditions or symptoms can be treated using virtual care. However, not every medical condition is best addressed remotely. Always call 9-1-1 or head to the nearest emergency room if you have severe or life-threatening symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.