Does Urgent Care Do Virtual Visits?
Key Points:
- Virtual urgent care allows patients to see a doctor virtually for minor illnesses or injuries
- Benefits of online urgent care include convenience, ability to be seen from anywhere, reduced wait times, affordability, and receiving prescriptions when needed.
With the increasing number of online doctors, health care has become more accessible and cost-effective across the country. There are times when seeing a doctor face-to-face is necessary, but Virtual urgent care is a great option for non-emergency medical concerns.
The Federation of State Medical Boards, responsible for overseeing physicians and healthcare professionals across the United States, establishes guidelines on the licensure requirements for doctors offering online care and specifies the states where they must hold licenses. These guidelines undergo regular updates, adapting to the changing landscape of telemedicine practices and addressing immediate issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
With so many telehealth providers available, deciding which is the best fit for you can be challenging.
What is Virtual Urgent Care
Virtual Urgent Care is an option for patients to be seen online for minor illnesses or injuries that do not need to be seen by a hospital emergency department. These services are ideal for minor illnesses and injuries that don’t require emergency room care.
Healthcare providers can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications, if needed, for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Acid Reflux/Heartburn
- Acne
- Arthritic pain
- Bladder Infections/Urinary Tract
- Infection
- Bronchitis
- Cold/cough/runny nose
- Conjunctivitis
- Insect Bites
- Laryngitis
- Minor Constipation or diarrhea
- Minor skin injury
- Minor Injuries
- Nausea
- Pink eye/Conjunctivitis
- Poison Ivy/Oak
- Prescription Refills
- Rash (non-genital, without fever)
- Request for laboratory testing (thyroid screening, diabetes screening, cholesterol screening)
- Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
- Scabies exposure
- Sinus infections or sinus pain
- Skin Infections
- Sore throat
- Sunburn
- Upper Respiratory Tract infection
Related: Non-life Threatening Emergencies
Benefits of Using Virtual Urgent Care
Convenience
Maybe you’re busy and can’t make it to the doctor’s office, can’t find childcare or just don’t want to get out of bed. Whatever the reason, Online urgent care eliminates the need for physical travel, making healthcare accessible with just a few clicks or taps on your device.
Access from Anywhere
Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, online urgent care brings medical expertise to your fingertips. With online urgent care consultations, distance is no longer a barrier to receiving timely care. This accessibility proves invaluable, particularly for individuals residing in remote areas or those with limited mobility.
Reduced wait times
Telehealth can save a lot of time for patients who need to see a doctor but don’t need an in-office visit. With five clinic locations across Texas, DOC-AID Urgent Care is within easy reach of many cities and communities. However, with telehealth, you don’t have to drive to your appointment. Instead, you can book a telehealth visit whenever it’s convenient for you. You don’t need to worry about taking time off work or changing your child’s school schedule. Telehealth visits also save time for both the patient and the doctor, making it a win-win situation.
Affordability
Healthcare expenses can quickly increase, especially for those without comprehensive insurance coverage. Virtual urgent care typically consultation fees are usually the same as in-person visits, making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible to a broader demographic. Additionally, many insurance plans now cover virtual consultations, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients.
Receive Prescriptions When Needed
Telemedicine urgent care services can help patients who need prescriptions, particularly those who run out of medication or can’t find it. These situations require quick action, so receiving urgent care as soon as possible is crucial.
With telemedicine, patients can get the care they need without having to make an extra trip to the doctor. This can save them time, money, energy, and effort, especially since they would still need to visit the pharmacy to pick up the prescription. By taking advantage of telemedicine, patients can streamline the process and avoid unnecessary stress.
Schedule a Telehealth Visit Now
DOC-AID Urgent Care has been providing high-quality healthcare in Laredo and via Telehealth for years. Telehealth visits are available seven days a week. Check-in online today to discuss your health concerns and talk with a certified medical professional in real time.
Please note: virtual urgent care is NOT for medical emergencies. For medical emergencies, call 911.
