How does telehealth work — and is it worth it?

When you have a sore throat and fever, it can be difficult to drive yourself to the doctor’s office and wait for your name to be called. Telehealth eliminates these hassles by providing a way to meet with a health care provider from the comfort of your own home.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth allows you to meet with health care providers virtually — via app, videoconferencing or phone — to treat common health conditions. This convenient option is used often, with more than 70% of physicians using telehealth weekly.*

What can you use telehealth for?

Telehealth can be used to treat common health issues such as respiratory infections, cold and flu symptoms, allergies, earaches, nausea, sore throat, rashes and other conditions. It can also be used to monitor chronic conditions, follow up after a procedure and request medication refills.

What’s not covered?

You can’t use telehealth for emergencies or urgent issues, such as heart attacks, strokes and broken bones. You must also be seen in person for imaging, bloodwork and other medical tests that can’t be performed virtually.

The Practical Advantages of Telehealth

Virtual care eliminates the need for in-person office visits, opening the door to attractive advantages.

• Time: There’s no commute to an office, no wasted time in a waiting area and generally no long waits.
• Convenience: Stay home when you’re not feeling well, avoid driving or asking for a ride, and reduce time away from work. A sick parent with young children can also avoid the hassles of bringing the kids to an office visit or arranging childcare. It’s also a convenient source of care when you’re on vacation or a business trip in the U.S.
• 24/7 accessibility: Telehealth provides access to care when your regular health care provider isn’t available, such as after hours, weekends and holidays.
• Cost: Telehealth can reduce costs by helping you avoid expensive trips to the emergency room if you have non-urgent medical needs after hours. Visits are sometimes free (as part of some health plans) or are typically offered at lower costs than in-office visits.
• Safety: Avoid potential exposure to illnesses in waiting areas.

How to Use Telehealth

Everything is easier when you’re feeling well. However, a fever or nausea can make it hard to think straight. That’s why doing some prep work before you need a telehealth appointment is essential. Set yourself up for a successful experience with these telehealth tips.

When You’re Well

• Download your telehealth app or create your account online as soon as you have access.
• Complete your profile. You’ll add contact information, provide medical history and list current medications. You may also have an option to add your preferred pharmacy.
• Familiarize yourself with the process to request an appointment.

When You Need Care

• Choose a quiet, private space for your visit.
• Sign on a few minutes before your visit to establish a good connection.
• Be ready to describe your symptoms.
• Prepare a list of questions to ask your health care provider.
• Be ready to answer questions about your medical history and current medications.
• Ask questions about medications prescribed to you (e.g., side effects, dosages, etc.)
• Ask for your records to be shared if you would like your regular health care provider to receive the results of your visit.

GuideStone Health Plans With Telehealth

At GuideStone^®, our vision is that every servant of Christ finishes well. That’s why we come alongside you with health plans that include an array of valuable built-in benefits — including some plans that include telehealth at no additional cost!

For more information, contact us at Insurance@GuideStone.org or 1-844-INS-GUIDE (1-844-467-4843), Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.

GuideStone welcomes the opportunity to share this general information. However, this article is not intended to be relied upon as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

*AMA-assn.org/practice-management/digital-health/new-data-details-how-telehealth-use-varies-physician-specialty