Telehealth

What is telehealth?

Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, refers to the practice of using telecommunications (iPhone, Computer, iPad) technology to evaluate, diagnose, and care for you using video conferencing over the internet. You may participate in telemedicine appointments using a personal computer with a webcam or smart mobile device with a built-in video camera. Prior to your visit, you will receive a link. By pressing the link, you will be placed into a virtual waiting room, Dr. Howard will be notified, and your virtual visit will begin momentarily.  It’s that easy.

How will the information from a telehealth appointment be used?

Telehealth is appropriate for many types of visits such as monitoring medications, renewals for medications, new non-emergent problems, mental health, and management of your medical conditions. It is also a good alternative to urgent care clinics or emergency rooms for non-emergency situations.

What are the benefits of telehealth?

Here are a few of the key benefits of seeing Dr. Howard remotely.

• No transportation time or costs – When you see Dr. Howard on your mobile device or computer, you can save money on gas, parking, and public transportation.
• No need to take time off of work – You can schedule your appointment during a break, or before or after work. You can do the visit from anywhere that you feel offers you enough privacy. There’s no need to waste your precious paid time off.
• Eliminate child or elder care issues – If you have the responsibility for caring for children or older adults, finding someone to fill in can be a challenge, as can bringing them along. Telehealth lets you see your doctor while managing your family responsibilities.
• Less exposure to illness – We take great care to keep patients from passing illness to each other. With a video visit, there’s no chance that you’ll catch something from another patient.
• Improved health outcomes – We are able to see you as often as you need to put yourself on the path to better health.
  
  

In summary, choosing telehealth and telemedicine services can offer you numerous benefits: 

• No sick patient exposure
• Time savings
• Cost savings
• No need for childcare
• Exceptional, friendly service
• No need to take time off work
• Added patient convenience
  
  

Dr. Howard ensures your information stays private, especially via telemedicine evaluations. While he might recommend you attend in-person visits in some instances, Dr. Howard can evaluate and treat numerous diseases and illnesses via virtual meetings.

What should I expect during my appointment?

During your scheduled telemedicine appointment, Dr. Howard contacts you directly. Dr. Howard asks you about your medical history, including past diagnoses and medications you take, as well as any symptoms you may be experiencing. 

He might recommend you undergo certain diagnostic tests as needed, such as a throat or nasal swab, blood tests, urine tests, tissue biopsies, an electrocardiogram (EKG), X-rays, or other diagnostic imaging procedures to diagnose your condition and create a treatment plan. Dr. Howard answers questions you have about your health, wellness, and disease prevention.

What are my telehealth treatment options?

Based on your health and lab results, if you require them, Dr. Howard reviews possible treatment options with you. He might recommend:

• Weight loss
• Nutritional or exercise changes
• Other healthy lifestyle habits
• Dietary supplements
• Medications
• Further diagnostic testing
• Minor surgical procedures
• Specialist referrals
  
  

If you have a complex medical condition requiring a specialist’s care, Dr. Howard can refer out to a highly trained specialist in your area. He personalizes each primary care treatment to best match your unique needs, lifestyle, and preferences.

The next time you have medical questions or need to see a primary care physician, but you’d like to do so virtually, call the Howard Health & Wellness office or request an appointment at DrCorey@howardhealthandwellness.com.