Getting an Online Diagnosis
With the rise of technological innovation also came innovation in healthcare. These days, it is easy and straightforward to address your medical concerns virtually, from the comfort of your own home or while you’re busy and on the go. Telehealth was created originally to connect people in rural areas or the elderly who couldn’t move easily to adequate healthcare resources, but today, anybody can utilize online symptom checkers and virtual doctor appointments to obtain an online diagnosis and even a prescription if the situation permits. Virtual healthcare is a safe and real alternative to visiting a doctor physically, but it is a faster and more convenient way to give you peace of mind knowing that you are taken care of and healthy than an in-office consultation.
Especially after the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, when people around the world are more cautious and aware of their health, virtual consultations with doctors are both a convenient and a safer option because they do not require physical interaction, so there’s no risk of infection. No more waiting months for an appointment to open up at your local doctor’s office, and no more sitting in crowded waiting rooms. Unfortunately, online diagnoses are not appropriate for every condition, and virtual doctors cannot prescribe medication for every condition. For example, you cannot get an online diagnosis for conditions such as ADHD, and you cannot get an online prescription for controlled substances such as Adderall, sleep medications, or anti-anxiety benzodiazepines. An online diagnosis should also not be a replacement for your primary care physician, and if you are experiencing a medical emergency, such as a stroke or a heart attack, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.
What Is an Online Diagnosis?
One way to get an online diagnosis is to find one yourself, otherwise known as a “self-diagnosis.” Self-diagnosis means that one identifies the symptoms of their own medical condition and determines a treatment plan for themselves. Especially for more minor concerns, such as the common cold or menstrual cramps, self-diagnosis is a viable option, and you can purchase over-the-counter medication to treat your symptoms. There are countless “symptom checkers” and informational articles that are available on the internet for people to determine what their symptoms might mean. However, self-diagnosis is also prone to error, and finding an online diagnosis without consulting with a medical professional may be misleading and lead to dangerous consequences if the wrong medication is taken. Symptom checkers may be useful to determine the severity of your condition and help you decide if you want to visit a doctor physically.
For more complex conditions, such as sinus infections or depression, it is still possible to receive healthcare virtually and get an online diagnosis. Virtual doctors are certified and licensed to provide medical services over the internet, whether that is through a chat, a voice call, or videoconferencing. There are multiple online telehealth providers that can instantly connect you with a physician, dermatologist, counselor, or another medical professional to review your symptoms and your medical history, efficiently diagnose your condition, and recommend a treatment plan. Depending on the local and state regulations, as well as the provider’s regulations, a virtual doctor may even be able to write a prescription following an online diagnosis to be delivered to your local pharmacy or even your front door.
How Can You See an Online Doctor?
It is actually really easy to schedule an appointment with a virtual doctor. Although the exact process depends on the service you choose, which will vary based on your insurance coverage and personal preferences, the steps are generally the same.
- Most providers will ask you to sign up and create an account on their website or app. The exact information required during signup will depend on the provider you choose but will most likely be personal details such as name, email address, age, primary care provider, and insurance (if you have it, although most providers do not require patients to have insurance).
- After this, you will be able to see a calendar or list of doctors and appointment times. You can choose which doctor and timing work best for you. Again, you may be asked some questions about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications. The telehealth provider will provide detailed instructions on how to access the secure and HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing or audio phone call appointment; you will most likely be asked to follow a link and will have to set up your audio and/or video.
- After you’re connected, you will be able to see the doctor on your phone, computer, or tablet, and they will walk through your information and symptoms; it may be useful to have a thermometer, scale, and any other medical devices nearby. As easy as that, they will give you an online diagnosis and recommend a treatment. If possible, they can write a prescription to your local pharmacy or, sometimes, write a prescription to be delivered to your home.
What Can Be Diagnosed Online?
Because it is typically recommended that one see a doctor instead of self-diagnosing when they are experiencing medical issues, the best way to get an online diagnosis is to schedule an appointment with a virtual doctor. Virtual doctors can review and treat a multitude of common or minor conditions and concerns. Although the specific services vary from provider to provider, generally, online doctors can offer an online diagnosis and treatment for:
- Acne
- Rashes
- Bladder infections and urinary tract infections
- Pink eye
- Cold & flu
- Yeast infections
- Cold sores
- Eczema
- Insect bites
- Lice
- Ingrown nails
- Allergies
- Sinus infections
- Sunburns
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Cough
- Headaches
- Nausea & vomiting
- Moles and warts
- Sore throat
- Relationship issues
- Trauma and PTSD
- Grief and loss
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory problems
- Skin cuts or abrasions
- Bruises
- Redness, rosacea, and irritation
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of virtual healthcare?
There are multiple benefits to going online for a diagnosis. You don’t have to go through the painful process of calling a doctor or urgent care and making an appointment, and you don’t have to schedule extra time and make accommodations to travel to the physical location. It is more affordable than a visit to the doctor’s office, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Virtual healthcare is also a more private option compared to a physical consultation, as you don’t have to leave the comfort and isolation of your home or room. Many patients have even said that they feel like online doctors are more focused and provide more individualized care than physical doctors.
How expensive is an online diagnosis?
An online doctor consultation can be as low as $30, or even free. But the price of an online diagnosis will depend a lot on the method you use, your health concerns, and whether or not you need a prescription. To determine exactly what your financial obligation will be, check with your insurance provider and virtual healthcare provider.
Will an online doctor diagnose anything?
Every virtual telemedicine provider has different regulations and offers different services. For example, some do not offer prescriptions for complex conditions, such as ADHD. Patients with more complex conditions will require a more comprehensive physical evaluation from a physical doctor in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. But an online doctor can treat long-term conditions and write refills for prescriptions that need to be taken every day.
Is it safe to get an online diagnosis?
While you know your body best, diagnosing yourself by using the internet is risky, and you may misdiagnose. It is recommended that even doctors don’t self-diagnose and instead see another doctor to treat their symptoms. Although it may be helpful to use a symptom checker, the safest way to get an online diagnosis is through a legitimate and trustworthy virtual telehealth provider, or instead, schedule an appointment to visit a medical professional in person at an urgent care facility or doctor.
Where to Get an Online Diagnosis
Do you want to finally treat your irritating facial rash? Or maybe you can’t get rid of that stuffy nose and sore throat but don’t have time to schedule an appointment at your doctor’s office and wait in a crowded room? You don’t have to look far for a trustworthy telehealth provider that can connect you with a board-certified doctor online today. Telegra MD will help you feel better with immediate appointments available and services for over 50 illnesses, concerns, and conditions. With hundreds of specialists ready to treat you and your loved ones, it is easy, efficient, and cost-effective to get an online diagnosis through Telegra MD.
The Telegra MD doctors are friendly and committed to you and your health. It is an easy and affordable way to get a quick diagnosis and treatment plan.
Get the treatment you need with the best online doctors available.
