Consulting a doctor online is easier than ever, because of advancements in technology. While telehealth has been available for a while, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it more common and widely adopted by all as we avoid unnecessary trips to healthcare institutions. The strengths and benefits of telehealth services have certainly been proven.
We outline the many benefits of telehealth and how we can continue to reap these benefits, even as we shift back towards living in a post-pandemic world.
What are the benefits of telehealth and online video consultations?
1. Comfort and Convenience
Telehealth offers a convenient way for patients who reside far from the closest medical facility to see a doctor online. With the telehealth services, you can access cashless and discreet online video consultations anytime, anywhere, with licensed medical providers that specialize in a wide range of medical fields, including, general medicine, dermatology, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and mental wellness.
One example of these telehealth services is the Doctor Anywhere app, where you can instantly connect with doctors from the comfort of your home.
2. Minimal Waiting Time
When it comes to physical consultations, we spend a lot of time traveling to a clinic and then waiting for our turn to consult the doctor. Telehealth cuts out this waiting time entirely. With the availability of general practitioners on the Doctor Anywhere app, you’ll be able to see a doctor within 5 minutes.
3. Immediate access to medical advice
Being able to connect directly to a doctor anytime you need means that you can get medical advice almost instantly — which is especially important if we’re caring for loved ones. For example, parents would be able to use telehealth services to immediately connect with doctors who can answer questions, offer diagnoses, and get prescribed medications if necessary.
4. Inclusive and accessible healthcare
Telehealth improves healthcare access to people with disabilities, the elderly, bedridden patients who are partially or fully paralyzed, or patients who may have significant medical needs or mobility and transportation issues that make visiting a doctor's office challenging.
5. Less anxiety
Many Filipinos are scared or “allergic” to doctor consultations. Telehealth provides a way to get medical support without leaving the comfort of one’s home, so you won’t be discouraged from making an appointment with a doctor.
6. Lower costs
Generally speaking, online doctor consultations are less expensive than in-person appointments. Additionally, the ease of seeing a doctor online can also help you avoid spending on additional costs like commuting to the clinic or taking time off work to see a doctor physically.
7. Accessible for those without health insurance
Seeing a doctor may be difficult if you don't have an HMO or insurance. Doctor Anywhere offers affordable pay-per-consult services. Through the Doctor Anywhere app, you can speak to a doctor and trained mental health professionals to receive the care you need even if you don’t have health insurance. Payment transactions are also cashless! Simply use GCash, credit card or debit card.
Telehealth services make it easier for us to keep our health in check by bringing healthcare directly to us. No matter where you are in the Philippines, the doctors of Doctor Anywhere are just a video call away if you require medical advice. Download the Doctor Anywhere app for free on App Store or Google Play Store. Remember to use the DA app to see the doctor.
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