Telemedicine

Telemedicine

 

Telemedicine options are now available to our patients. You can now save yourself the time and headache of making arrangements and traveling to your appointments. You can now safely complete certain appointments online that don't require an in-person physical exam or evaluation.

Please know that your privacy is important to us. Our telemedicine visits occur through a secure video platform, ensuring your information is safe and confidential.

In-office physical exams are required for:

  • Well-child exams
  • Annual exams
  • Certain musculoskeletal evaluations
  • Skin rashes/concerns

Telemedicine Appointments

At Flourish Family Medicine, we understand that access to healthcare should be simple and convenient. With our telemedicine services, we bring quality healthcare directly to you, wherever you are. Our telemedicine platform is designed to make medical consultations more accessible, efficient, and comfortable for all our patients.

What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine uses digital technology to deliver medical care, health information, and education from a distance. With the use of video calls (via Zoom) our healthcare providers can conduct virtual visits, allowing patients to receive professional advice without the need to travel.

Benefits of Telemedicine

1. Convenience: Receive medical care without leaving your home, saving you time and travel expenses.
2. Accessibility: Great for patients in remote or rural areas or families with busy schedules that make it difficult to make it into the office.
3. Efficiency:  Often, telemedicine can expedite consultation times and the sharing of information.
4. Flexibility: Schedule appointments and receive care at times that suit your busy lifestyle.
5. Reduced Exposure: Especially important during cold and flu season.

Services Offered Through Telemedicine

- Virtual Consultations:  Appointments to discuss symptoms, concerns, and treatment options directly with healthcare providers via video conferencing.
- Follow-up Visits: Convenient follow-up appointments to monitor progress or adjust treatment plans without the need to visit in person.
- Prescription Management: Manage and renew prescriptions through direct communication with your provider.
- Mental Health Services: Access to mental health professionals through secure video calls.
- Chronic Disease Management: Regular monitoring and management of chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
- Health Education & Counseling:  Discussion, education and support of your health related conditions and questions to manage your health. 

How Telemedicine Works

1. Schedule Your Visit: Book an appointment through our website or over the phone.
2. Setup Technology:  Use a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet access.
3. Join the Virtual Waiting Room:  Log in to our secure platform at your appointment time.
4. Meet Your Provider: Your doctor will join the session to discuss your health concerns as they would in a traditional in-person visit.
5. Receive a Care Plan:  At the end of your visit you will receive a personalized care plan including prescriptions, follow-up instructions, or referrals as needed.

Who Can Use Telemedicine?

Telemedicine is suitable for most individuals seeking routine medical care, follow-up appointments, or consultations that don’t require physical exams. It's particularly beneficial for those managing chronic conditions, needing mental health support, or anyone seeking convenient access to healthcare advice.

Limitations of Telemedicine

1. Physical Examinations: Telemedicine cannot replace the need for physical examinations in certain medical situations. Conditions that require physical examsuch as abdominal issues or cardiac symptoms, precise physical measurements, or immediate physical intervention cannot be fully addressed through virtual consultations.

2. Diagnostic Capabilities: While telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations and follow-ups, it may not be suitable for diagnosing new or complex medical conditions that require direct diagnostic testing such as blood tests, X-rays, or other in-person procedures.

3. Emergency Care: Telemedicine is not suitable for emergency situations. Patients experiencing serious or life-threatening issues such as severe pain, heart attack symptoms, serious injuries, or strokes need immediate in-person care.

 

Tips for Successful Telemedicine Appointments

 - Set up in a quiet room without noise or distractions.  Please note you cannot be driving during your telemedicine visit. 

- Ensure the lighting is bright (whether facing natural light or overhead lights).

- Have your links and login information handy.

- Check if your webcam and microphone are turned on and working properly.

- Test your wi-fi connection for optimal communication.

Insurance Coverage

Telemedicine visits are still considered an “office visit” and will be billed as so. Please visit insurance/prices for more information.