Teleconsult has become a convenient way to see a doctor and get medical advice. At Doctor Anywhere, we’ve been leading the way in telehealth since 2017. And since then, we’ve grown and expanded to offer a full range of healthcare solutions.
Today, Doctor Anywhere provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including GP clinics, specialist consultations, health screenings, telehealth options, and corporate wellness programs.
To help you make informed decisions about your healthcare, let’s explore when teleconsult is the right choice and when a clinic visit is needed, considering a holistic approach to your health journey.
So, should you teleconsult or visit a clinic?
Here’s a breakdown to help you make the right choice:
When Teleconsult is SUITABLE:
- Follow-up appointments: For existing conditions that both you and your doctor are already familiar with.
- Minor ailments: Common illnesses like colds, flu, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation or allergies. Dr. Andrew Fang, DA’s director of medical services, adds, “For straightforward ailments like the flu, telemedicine may be an option, particularly for patients who need quick access to medical care.”
- Medication refills: Request refills for ongoing prescriptions for existing conditions.
- Routine check-ins: Discuss general health concerns or ask for advice.
Here’s a list of conditions that are suitable for teleconsultations.
When a Clinic Visit is NEEDED:
- Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms are getting worse or you’re concerned about their severity, it’s essential to see a doctor in person. Your doctor can then conduct a physical examination to properly assess and address your condition.
- Urgent care needs: For severe symptoms or emergencies, immediate in-person evaluation is crucial.
Some symptoms that would require urgent medical care include chest pain, shortness of breath, and drooping on one side of the face. - Conditions requiring physical examinations: Certain conditions require procedures or tests that can only be performed in a clinic setting. Dr. Andrew Fang: “In the clinic, we can do a physical examination, check blood pressure, look into the ears, check the oral cavity, listen to the heart and lungs. If advisable, the doctor may also recommend doing some lab tests or even imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound scans.”
- Frequent symptoms requiring MCs: Dr. Andrew Fang: “If you’ve already seen a doctor twice in a month for medical ailments and you still need to see a doctor another time, it’s best to go down to see a doctor in person, in a clinic. This is because a clinic setting allows your doctor to provide a more comprehensive and holistic assessment of your conditions. There may be an underlying condition contributing to your medical ailments or frequent feeling unwell.”
Doctor Anywhere emphasises responsible teleconsult usage. While convenient, it’s essential to prioritise your health and understand when a physical visit is necessary.
Here’s a helpful tip from Dr. Andrew Fang:
- “If you’re teleconsulting more than twice within a 30-day period and receiving medical certificates (MCs) for each visit, it may be a sign that you need a more comprehensive in-person assessment.” Frequent teleconsultations could indicate a more complex health concern that requires a doctor’s physical examination.
Doctor Anywhere is here to support your health journey, whether it’s virtual or in-person. We offer both convenient teleconsult options and comprehensive in-person care to meet your diverse needs.
Stay informed. Stay healthy.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new diet or exercise programme.
