Take Advantage of Telehealth for Eye Care
Your eye is itchy, irritated, and bloodshot. You suspect it could be an infection, but only a doctor can diagnose that. The problem is, you're feeling under the weather and can't get to a doctor. Not to worry — you have options to visit the doctor without even leaving your house!
That's telehealth: The ability to receive medical advice virtually. Through an online video call, your doctor can sometimes diagnose and manage certain eye conditions without even meeting with you in person.
Continue reading to learn more about telehealth from your local Nationwide Vision.
What is Telehealth?
In telehealth visits, you use your phone or computer to connect with a doctor or other health professional online to receive a diagnosis or even treatment for certain medical conditions. Telehealth offers easy access to health care and reduces visits to emergency rooms. Oftentimes, it's more cost-effective, and with real-time visits, you're able to learn about your treatment options within minutes.
Even before COVID-19 kept patients away from doctor's offices and other places of business, telehealth was a well-respected and popular alternative to an in-person doctor's visit in many fields of medicine, including eye care. Studies show that telehealth has the potential to improve the patient's experience as well as assess the need for a more comprehensive in-person visit in the future.
Should You Use Telehealth?
Telehealth is a wonderful alternative to traditional in-person visits, and there are many reasons why you may choose to stay at home instead of visiting in person.
Lack of Transportation
If you live in an area that lacks public transportation, or you can’t find a ride to the office, telehealth visits ensure you still receive the care you need.
Busy Schedule
Telehealth appointments can be conducted anywhere with a secure internet connection. This cuts your commute time and time spent in the waiting room.
Limited Access to Medical Care
As long as you have a secure internet connection, you can complete a telehealth visit anywhere, even if your area lacks access to reliable eye care professionals.
Mobility Difficulties
A disability or illness can make it difficult to leave home without assistance. Telehealth offers accessible care for those with limited mobility.
Risk of Exposure
Doctor’s offices see many patients with different health conditions on a given day. Although high-touch areas are cleaned frequently, potentially harmful germs can still be present. Seeking medical care from the comfort of your home will reduce the number of germs you’re exposed to.
What Conditions Can Telehealth Treat?
While telehealth can be convenient and effective, it’s important to understand the limits of virtual eye care. Not every eye issue can be addressed remotely, as your eye doctor often needs to conduct in-person tests or treatments that aren’t possible through the screen.
However, telehealth still plays a vital role in eye care. It’s a useful tool for diagnosing and overseeing some eye conditions or urgent eye problems. Plus, speaking with a doctor virtually can be a crucial first step in deciding if you need to see an eye specialist in person.
Some examples of conditions that may be diagnosed virtually are:
Chalazion: A swollen bump on your eyelid caused by blocked oil glands.
Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelid that is red or irritated. This condition can be caused by clogged oil glands, allergies, or an infection.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage: A red blood spot on the white of your eye that can be caused by eye strain, trauma to the eye, sneezing, or coughing.
Dry eye: An irritating, burning, or stinging sensation in the eye may be due to dry eye. This condition is caused by inadequate tear production.
Scheduling Your Telehealth Visit with Nationwide Vision
Virtual visits with your eye doctor are easy. All you need is a smartphone or laptop equipped with a camera. To schedule a telehealth visit:
1. Call your eye doctor's office and be prepared to explain your problem.
2. Make sure to have your insurance card and calendar handy to schedule the visit.
3. You'll receive a secure link via text or email to use when it's time for your visit.
If you're pressed for time, unable to get yourself to your doctor's office, or need help in a hurry, telehealth can be a great alternative to a traditional in-person visit that doesn't compromise your care. Note that not all eye doctors offer telehealth, and many limit what they can offer virtually. To get a clearer picture of what our eye doctors currently provide, find a Nationwide Vision location near you.