Sponsored Post
The COVID-19 pandemic has severely compromised modern healthcare systems. Aside from filling up the hospitals with infected patients, the pandemic has also caused immense fear and worry among today’s population. According to the health news website PatientEngagementHIT, 1 in 10 adults has delayed their health concerns due to COVID-19.
Thankfully, telehealth has come to save the day by safely connecting patients with healthcare providers through teleconferencing apps. However, a lot of folks are still apprehensive about telehealth, especially those who are seeking to solve issues concerning their skin. That being said, let’s discuss how effective virtual skincare appointments really are in this post.
What can you get from virtual dermatology appointments?
Virtual skin care appointments are conducted with video applications. And just like a face-to-face visit with your dermatologist, virtual skin care appointments can also diagnose any potential worrisome skin conditions. In such appointments, you gain access to a board-certified dermatologist who can visually assess your concerns and ask you relevant questions in order to produce a diagnosis.
Virtual visits are safe, convenient, and highly effective. Furthermore, patients shouldn’t worry about receiving the best care possible as renowned telehealth service provider Wheel notes that current HIPAA-compliant telehealth solutions can provide a seamless, secure, and unobstructed experience for the patient. Such solutions make it easy for patients who need to regularly consult with their dermatologist to track the progress of their skin issues.
Moreover, virtual visits are also ideal for initial consultations. Patients who are wondering about the benefits of a skin procedure such as microdermabrasion, photo facials, and scar reduction treatments can save time and energy by first discussing these with a dermatologist through virtual appointments. In addition, patients who want to build a personalized skin care regimen, but don’t know what active ingredients to use, can also first consult with a dermatologist online.
Conditions that can be addressed virtually by dermatologists
Here are some of the skin issues that can be treated in virtual dermatologist appointments:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Rosacea
- Hives and rashes
- Cold sores
- Impetigo
- Shingles
Concerns that require the immediate attention of dermatologists
Of course, there are certain situations when virtual appointments won’t suffice when treating skin conditions. Some urgent concerns that need to be seen in person by a dermatologist and other healthcare providers are:
- Excruciating joint pain
- Bruises that don’t turn pal with pressure
- Unusual blotches on the skin
- Moles that have irregular shapes and have suddenly appeared
- A change in skin condition accompanied by fevers
- Rashes found inside the mouth or on the genitals
These symptoms are a sign of an underlying infection, or even possibly skin cancer. Because of this, you should seek immediate medical attention. In addition, if you feel as if you have a skin condition that requires a full body skin exam or if your dermatologist deems it necessary for you to get a skin biopsy, you will need to physically visit a healthcare provider. Usually, a dermatologist will assess if you need an in-person visit during your virtual appointment.
Preparing for your virtual dermatology appointment
Before your virtual appointment, you should first take note of every concern that you may have. Write down all of your questions and remarks to make sure that you don’t forget anything during your appointment. Furthermore, make sure to have your pertinent medical records on-hand to save time and to help the dermatologist better understand your skin’s condition.
To help the dermatologist make an accurate diagnosis, online news resource Insider suggests that you should conduct your virtual appointment in a quiet environment with good lighting. Additionally, you should secure a good internet connection before your virtual appointment to ensure a lag-free and good experience.
Hopefully, the discussion above has quelled your fears and concerns when it comes to virtual skin care appointments. For more health and wellness insights, do check out our other posts here on Lifestyle & Health.
