In the wake of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, many patients found themselves unable to travel to medical specialists for their usual appointments. Unfortunately, this sometimes meant putting off essential visits. Fortunately, the rise of modern telehealth options has made it possible for people to get the services they need.
Today, pandemic-related restrictions are lessening nationwide—but telehealth may be here to stay.
If you’re new to the world of remote telemedicine, or if you’re not sure how to choose the right resource, the search may feel unsettling. Fortunately, a few simple tips can help you find the right online healthcare for your needs.
Talk to Your Primary Care Physician
Even if you’ve been going to the same primary care physician for in-person appointments for years, you might be surprised to learn that your trusted medical office has integrated telehealth services now. Call your doctor to find out if they offer telehealth and whether they believe remote telemedicine is right for your condition.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If your doctor doesn’t offer virtual healthcare options, you might be able to work with your insurance company to get help finding telehealth providers. Your first step should always be to check your online portal or app. If you can’t find answers, call the number on your insurance card to learn more about what’s covered.
Given the recent COVID-19 pandemic, most insurance providers cover telehealth services nowadays. Both Medicare and Medicaid recipients have access to telehealth benefits in most states. However, be sure to check with your insurance company to verify coverage.
Note that even if your insurance doesn’t cover the telemedicine options you’re considering—or if you have no health insurance—it still might be worth doing a virtual doctor visit anyway. Many online health centers charge for services on a sliding scale, so don’t hesitate to reach out to any specialists you’re interested in.
Find Remote Doctors Online
If you’ve exhausted the resources above, you’re not out of luck: it’s easier than ever to find options for telemedicine online these days.
Search online for telehealth companies that specialize in the condition you need treatment for. Many companies allow you to make on-demand virtual appointments. Some even offer free initial consultations to see whether a doctor thinks they’re a good fit for your needs.
In addition, it may be helpful to consider looking at certain directories based on your current needs. Depending on where you are in the world, you may have access to certain specialists who are better equipped to work with patients in your specific environment. SeaDoc, for example, focuses on 24/7 maritime-specialized healthcare for patients at sea.
Take Advantage of Today’s Telehealth Options
Whether you’re out at sea, living in the remote wilderness, or worried about the lasting effects of the pandemic, today’s wealth of telehealth options can help. When you don’t have the luxury of visiting your regular doctor, a little online research can help you find a service to take care of any condition. Do your homework today to take advantage of the virtual healthcare options you need!
Looking for more of the essential life tips you need to know? Check out our other guides for additional insights.
