Telemedicine vs. In-Person Care: What's the Difference?

Through technological advancements in recent years along with social-distancing standards created as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ways in which we receive care from health experts have multiplied.

Although telemedicine existed pre-pandemic, it was popularized by the fact that doctors needed to find ways to see their patients for routine care without requiring them to leave their homes.

Today, virtual care is being offered by many health care organizations as a more convenient option to in-person care, but there will always be appointments we'll need to attend in person.

So, what is the difference between in-person care and virtual care and what are the advantages of each?

Telemedicine

Telemedicine (also referred to as telehealth and virtual care) encompasses all methods you and your doctor exchange information that relies on technology.

Perhaps the form that many of us are familiar with is a video call, but you may also discuss your health over a phone call or even a messaging system.

Here are some of the advantages to using telemedicine:

Convenience: The most obvious benefit to virtual care is that it can typically be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes doctors visits easier than ever.

Increased access: Telehealth has greatly expanded your access to care teams, giving you and health care specialists greater ability collaborate with one another and deliver the best quality services possible.

In-Person Care

At least until technology catches up, in-person care will always be the needed for your most critical care. There are also some more intangible benefits to in-person appointments that make it necessary if you want to establish a primary care provider.

Here are some of the benefits of in-person care:

Relationship building: It's important to build a relationship with your primary care doctor, ensuring they know about your life and learning about them. This gives them greater awareness of your life and the ability to spot areas of your wellness that might be concerning. A relationship also helps you build up your trust of them and greatly improves your experience anytime you need to head into the doctor's office.

Hands-on examinations: In-person care is essential for any physical examination you may need, whether it's to feel a lump or even listen to your lungs. While we may not feel ill or notice a small lump, these physical exams are necessary to screen for certain conditions early on.

Testing and Imaging: For blood tests and diagnostic imaging like x-rays, there really is no substitute for in-person care for a couple different reasons. First, you need to be there for blood to be drawn or the MRI machine to scan your body. However, another important reason these visits should be done in person is so that your care team can ensure these tests are being done properly and that you stay informed about what various tests are for.

Should I Schedule a Virtual or In-Person Appointment?

As you look to schedule your next doctor's visit, you may wonder what kind of visit types are appropriate for either type of care.

Below is a general breakdown of reasons for visits that can give you an idea of what appointments should be in-person as well as those you can seek virtual care for. Reasons for visits that are appropriate for virtual care:

• Allergies
• Heartburn
• Runny Nose, Congestion and Cough
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Pink Eye
• Swollen Lymph Nodes
• Diabetes Discussion and Follow-Up
• Birth Control Discussion and Follow-Up
• Cholesterol Follow-Up
• High Blood Pressure Follow-Up
• Lab Results Follow-Up
• Depression or Anxiety Follow-Up

Reasons for visits that are appropriate for in-person care:

• Physical exams and annual check-ups
• Initial appointments for chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, COPD and GERD
• Developmental delays
• Mental health
• Sleep problems
• Travel counseling

There are clear advantages and disadvantages to each type of care, whether it's face-to-face or using your smartphone. Depending on what type of care you need, be sure to communicate with your doctors about which type of care you prefer.