Take Advantage of Telehealth for Eye Care
Did you know that you have options for how you receive your eye care? Telehealth, often called telehealth, has been around for years but recently grew in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many eye doctors now offer telehealth visits that are often more affordable and faster than a traditional in-person visit to the doctor’s office.
Continue reading to learn more about telehealth from your local The EyeDoctors location.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is when you use your mobile device or computer to connect with a healthcare professional online. It’s a popular alternative to an in-person doctor’s visit in many fields of medicine, including eye care. Eye doctors can provide treatment for certain eye conditions or vision problems.
It’s been shown in a recent study that telehealth can improve patient experience and assess the need for a more comprehensive in-person visit.
Note that not all eye doctors offer telehealth and many even have limits on what they're able to care for virtually.
Reasons Why You May Use Telehealth Services
Telehealth is a wonderful alternative to the traditional in-person visits. You can get medical care at home, without having to compromise the level of care you receive.
There are many reasons you may want to use telehealth, some of which we’ve outlined below.
Lack of Transportation
Telehealth is especially helpful for those that lack reliable transportation to and from their eye doctor’s office. This is especially true in areas that have no access to public transportation.
Tight Schedule
Telehealth appointments can be conducted anywhere with a secure internet connection. This cuts your commute time and time spent in the waiting room.
No Access to Medical Care
Some areas lack access to reliable eye health professionals. This can make it difficult to access eye care. Telehealth visits can take place at any location with a secure internet connection.
Difficulties Due to Low Mobility
A disability or illness can make it difficult to leave home without assistance. Telehealth offers accessible care for those with limited mobility.
Lower Your Exposure to Germs
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 Can Telehealth Treat?
Telehealth is not appropriate for every type of eye care visit. Often, eye care requires tests or procedures that can't be done virtually, but there is a lot that telehealth can do.
Telehealth can be used to diagnose and manage certain eye conditions and eye emergencies, as well as assess whether an in-office visit is required.
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.
Schedule a In-Office Remote Eye Exams Visit with The EyeDoctors
A virtual visit with your local Kansas eye doctor is more convenient than making a trip to your favorite The EyeDoctors location. All you need is a smartphone or laptop with access to the internet.