Dec. 18, 2023
Barely a week into their new school, my first-grader, Sam, came home feeling under the weather. Initially, I brushed it off since he didn’t feel warm at all. But come dinner, his cheeks were flushed, he had no appetite, and soon enough, he complained of a sore throat. A quick check revealed it was red and inflamed. Shortly after, he started throwing up—every ten minutes.
It was clear that my poor kid was really sick, and I was in a predicament. We had just relocated, and I hadn’t found a pediatrician yet. Plus, it was after hours. While I knew there were urgent care clinics and emergency rooms nearby, the thought of taking my miserable, vomiting child out in the cold and then waiting indefinitely felt daunting.
I usually adopt a “wait and see” mindset when my kids are ill, but this situation called for action. In a moment of desperation, I searched for “online doctor,” and to my surprise, I discovered the world of telemedicine. Many insurance plans even cover it! It was like a light bulb went off—why had I never considered this before?
I quickly downloaded a telemedicine app on my phone, filled in some information—insurance details, Sam’s info—and snapped a couple of pictures of his inflamed throat. After selecting a doctor from a list, I waited for my virtual appointment, much like sitting in a traditional waiting room, except I was in my living room, wearing comfy yoga pants, and able to keep my sick child cozy on the couch. The app kept me updated on the wait time, and within a quarter of an hour, the doctor appeared on my screen.
It was similar to a video call. She introduced herself and asked me to explain Sam’s symptoms. I mentioned the photos I had sent her prior to the visit. She reviewed them, asked me some questions, and even had me take his temperature. I then turned the phone towards Sam so she could see his throat in real-time.
The doctor diagnosed him with a classic case of strep throat—a surprise to me since I didn’t know it could cause vomiting. She even compared it to some reference pictures. After writing a prescription for antibiotics and sending it to my local pharmacy, I was able to pick it up within an hour. After just one dose, Sam was able to rest—thank you, technology!
Since that experience, I’ve utilized online doctor visits far more frequently than in-person trips to the pediatrician. The convenience is unmatched: shorter wait times and I can multitask around the house while waiting. The appointments are also quicker, as they don’t involve measuring height, weight, or blood pressure.
Of course, online consultations work best for visually identifiable conditions like rashes or conjunctivitis—some issues definitely require an in-person assessment. However, for those moments when I need quick medical advice, it’s reassuring to know I have a viable alternative to just waiting it out. For families in rural areas or during inclement weather, telemedicine is undoubtedly a lifesaver.
My favorite aspect? I don’t have to dress my sick kids and drag them out to the car. No waiting in a crowded waiting room surrounded by other people’s germs; heck, as long as the examination is from the waist up, who needs pants, right?
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In summary, virtual doctor visits are revolutionizing healthcare for families. They offer convenience, speed, and comfort, allowing parents to seek medical attention without the hassle of traditional office visits.
Keyphrase: virtual doctor visits
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