How does telemedicine work — and is it worth it?

Four out of ten physicians use telemedicine daily,¹ and more than half of Americans have used telemedicine.² What’s so appealing about this fast-growing form of health care? Consider how telemedicine works to determine if it’s a good fit for you.

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine allows you to meet with health care providers virtually — via app, videoconferencing or phone — to treat common health conditions.

What can you use telemedicine for?

Telemedicine can be used to treat common health issues such as respiratory infections, cold and flu symptoms, allergies, earaches, nausea, sore throat, rashes and other conditions. It can also be used to monitor chronic conditions, follow up after a procedure and request medication refills.

What’s not covered? You can’t use telemedicine for emergencies or urgent issues, such as heart attacks, strokes and broken bones. You must also be seen in person for imaging, bloodwork and other medical tests that can’t be performed virtually.

The Practical Advantages of Telemedicine

Virtual care eliminates the need for in-person office visits, opening the door to attractive advantages.

• Time: There’s no commute to an office, no wasted time in a waiting area and generally no long waits.
• Convenience: Stay home when you’re not feeling well, avoid driving or asking for a ride, and reduce time away from work. A sick parent with young children can also avoid the hassles of bringing the kids to an office visit or arranging childcare. It’s also a convenient source of care when you’re on vacation or a business trip in the U.S.
• 24/7 accessibility: Telemedicine provides access to care when your regular doctor isn’t available, such as after hours, weekends and holidays.
• Cost: How does telemedicine reduce costs? It can help you avoid expensive trips to the emergency room if you have non-urgent medical needs after hours. Visits are sometimes free (as part of some health plans) or are typically offered at lower costs than in-office visits.
• Safety: Avoid potential exposure to illnesses in waiting areas.

How to Use Telemedicine

Everything is easier when you’re feeling well — a fever or nausea can make it hard to think straight. That’s why doing some prep work before ever using the service is essential. Set yourself up for a successful experience with these telemedicine tips.

When You’re Well

• Download your telemedicine app or create your account online as soon as you have access.
• Complete your profile. You’ll add contact information, provide medical history, and list current medications. You may also have an option to add your preferred pharmacy.
• Familiarize yourself with the process to request an appointment.

When You Need Care

• Choose a quiet, private space for your visit.
• Sign on a few minutes before your visit to establish a good connection.
• Be ready to describe your symptoms.
• Prepare a list of questions to ask your health care provider.
• Be ready to answer questions about your medical history and current medications.
• Ask questions about medications prescribed to you (e.g., side effects, dosages, etc.)
• If you prefer that your regular health care provider receive the results of your visit, ask for your records to be shared.

You Have an Advocate for Your Well-being

At GuideStone^®, our vision is that every servant of Christ finishes well. That’s why we come alongside you with health plans that include an array of valuable built-in benefits — including some plans that include telemedicine at no additional cost!

For more information, contact us at Insurance@GuideStone.org or 1-844-INS-GUIDE (1-844-467-4843), Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.

GuideStone welcomes the opportunity to share this general information. However, this article is not intended to be relied upon as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

¹Statista.com/statistics/1445677/frequency-of-telemedicine-use-by-physicians-in-the-us

²Statista.com/statistics/1219721/telemedicine-use-in-the-us-by-channel