Virtual Visits for the Flu: Pros & Cons
When you’re experiencing flu symptoms, you want the treatment you need as soon as possible. But which urgent care option is going to be the best choice for you: a virtual telemedicine session or a visit to your local immediate care center? Telehealth offers a number of pros and cons, so we’ve compiled a list of factors for you to consider before deciding on a treatment route.
Telehealth Pros
One of the main benefits of opting for a telemedicine session is that it minimizes germ spread. The flu is highly contagious—especially within the first three to four days after contracting the virus—so choosing to stay at home can lower your risk of spreading the illness to other individuals. Plus, in light of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, choosing a virtual visit rather than an in-person one can reduce your risk of contracting coronavirus.
Opting for a telehealth session can also avoid any discomfort associated with leaving the house and traveling to an in-person appointment. Let’s face it—having the flu is miserable. With symptoms such as fever, body aches, and fatigue, the last thing you want to do is change out of your pajamas, get into the car, and spend time waiting to be seen (especially if weather conditions are less than pleasant). Virtual visits allow you to get the care you need from the comfort of your home. And in the event that you’re working from home despite having flu symptoms, a telemedicine session can spare you from having to take off any time from work.
Telehealth Cons
Because virtual visits are dependent on technology functioning properly, you won’t be able to get the care you need if you can’t access the telemedicine system. So, if you opt for a telehealth session, make sure that the device you’ll be using is charged and connected to the internet.
It should also be noted that while virtual visits are usually appropriate for people experiencing flu symptoms, they may not be the best choice for individuals in need of more hands-on care. For example, if someone has broken a bone, a provider likely won’t be able to properly diagnose and treat it over a video chat.
The Provider to Choose for All of Your Urgent Care Needs
Whether you decide to go with a telemedicine session or an in-person visit, you can turn to PhysicianOne Urgent Care for prompt treatment of flu symptoms. We have 23 immediate care centers across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, all of which are open every day of the year with extended hours.
If a virtual visit sounds like the right choice for your needs, all you need to do is book an appointment online and then follow the directions to connect to our secure videoconferencing platform. Or, if you choose to visit us in person for treatment of your flu symptoms, you can walk in anytime without the need for an appointment (although we offer a convenient online check-in system that can minimize your wait time). We also encourage you to visit this page to learn about COVID-19 testing options if you’re at all concerned about having this virus. Contact PhysicianOne Urgent Care today if you have any questions.
