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Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Effective management often requires regular check-ins with a dermatologist, but busy schedules and long waits can make this difficult. Telehealth offers a convenient alternative. My Virtual Physician specializes in providing accessible, expert care for a wide range of skin conditions through telehealth consultations.
Common skin conditions include:
These conditions can significantly affect your quality of life, but timely and consistent care can help.
Telehealth allows patients to consult with a physician without leaving home. Through video calls or by uploading photos, your doctor can:
Our team prioritizes your skin health by:
Your skin deserves expert care, and My Virtual Physician makes it easy to access. Schedule your telehealth appointment today and take the first step toward healthier skin.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
In recent years, mental health has garnered significant attention as a critical component of overall well-being. The global pandemic further underscored the importance of accessible mental health care, leading to a surge in the utilization of telehealth services. Today, more individuals are seeking virtual mental health support, making it essential to understand how telehealth can effectively address mental health needs.
Telehealth has revolutionized the way mental health services are delivered. With the convenience of virtual consultations, individuals can access therapy and counseling from the comfort of their homes. This accessibility eliminates barriers such as geographical limitations and reduces the stigma often associated with seeking mental health care.
While telehealth offers numerous advantages, some individuals may have concerns about the effectiveness of virtual mental health services. Studies have shown that telehealth can be as effective as in-person therapy for many conditions. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as secure video conferencing and encrypted communication platforms, ensure that patient confidentiality is maintained.
As technology continues to evolve, telehealth is poised to become an integral part of mental health care. Innovations like AI-driven mental health apps and virtual reality therapy are expanding the possibilities for treatment, making mental health services more personalized and interactive.
At My Virtual Physician, we understand the importance of mental health and are committed to providing comprehensive telehealth services to support your well-being. Our team of licensed mental health professionals offers personalized therapy and counseling tailored to your unique needs. With flexible scheduling, secure and confidential sessions, and a user-friendly platform, we make it easy for you to prioritize your mental health from anywhere.
Don't wait to take control of your mental well-being. Schedule an appointment with My Virtual Physician today and embark on your journey to a healthier, happier you.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
When choosing a telehealth provider, affordability and insurance compatibility are crucial factors. While telehealth offers convenience and flexibility, its true value lies in its accessibility—ensuring that quality healthcare is available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation or insurance coverage. Let’s explore why affordability and insurance compatibility matter and how My Virtual Physician leads the way in making telehealth accessible to all.
One of the biggest concerns for patients is unexpected costs. Hidden fees and unclear pricing structures can make healthcare financially stressful. A reputable telehealth provider should offer transparent, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
At My Virtual Physician, we prioritize transparency. Our pricing is clear and straightforward, with no hidden fees or surprise charges. Before your consultation, you’ll know the exact cost, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare. This transparency helps you budget for your medical needs without any unpleasant surprises.
Affordability doesn’t just mean transparent pricing—it also means reasonable consultation fees. High consultation costs can be a barrier for many patients, particularly those without insurance or with high-deductible plans.
My Virtual Physician offers competitive consultation fees that are often more affordable than traditional in-person visits. By leveraging telehealth technology, we reduce overhead costs and pass those savings on to you. Our goal is to provide high-quality care at a price that fits your budget, making healthcare accessible to more people.
Navigating insurance coverage can be complicated, especially for telehealth services. A quality telehealth provider should accept a wide range of insurance plans and provide clear information on what’s covered.
My Virtual Physician works with many major insurance providers to ensure that our services are covered for as many patients as possible. We also assist you in understanding your insurance benefits, so you know exactly what’s covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be. If you’re unsure about your coverage, our support team is available to help you verify your benefits and answer any questions.
Not everyone has insurance, and for those who are uninsured or underinsured, accessing healthcare can be challenging. An affordable telehealth provider should offer options for self-pay patients and discounted services to ensure that everyone has access to care.
At My Virtual Physician, we believe that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. We offer affordable self-pay options for those without insurance, ensuring that everyone can access the care they need. Our flexible payment plans and discounted rates for uninsured patients make it easier to prioritize your health, regardless of your financial situation.
Healthcare costs can be significant, and flexible payment options can ease the financial burden. A telehealth provider that offers payment plans or accepts Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) adds tremendous value.
My Virtual Physician accepts HSAs and FSAs, allowing you to use pre-tax dollars to cover your healthcare expenses. We also offer flexible payment options to accommodate different financial situations. Our goal is to make high-quality healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone.
Telehealth inherently offers cost savings compared to traditional in-person care. There are no travel expenses, reduced time off work, and often lower consultation fees. However, not all telehealth providers pass these savings on to patients.
My Virtual Physician is committed to providing cost-effective care. By eliminating the need for travel and reducing overhead costs, we offer services that are often significantly more affordable than traditional doctor visits. These savings make healthcare more accessible, especially for those in rural areas or with limited mobility.
Affordability isn’t just about low prices—it’s about value for money. A quality telehealth provider should offer comprehensive, high-quality care that justifies the cost. This includes thorough consultations, follow-up care, and access to specialists.
At My Virtual Physician, we provide exceptional value. Our comprehensive consultations ensure that you receive thorough, personalized care. We offer follow-up appointments, access to specialists, and a range of services that go beyond basic care. When you choose My Virtual Physician, you’re investing in high-quality, affordable healthcare that prioritizes your well-being.
Affordability and insurance compatibility are at the heart of our mission at My Virtual Physician. We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of their financial situation or insurance status. With transparent pricing, competitive fees, flexible payment options, and comprehensive insurance coverage, we make telehealth accessible to all.
Don’t let financial concerns stand in the way of your health. Schedule an appointment with My Virtual Physician today and experience affordable, high-quality care from the comfort of your home. Your health is worth it—and we’re here to make sure it’s within reach.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
In the modern world, accessibility and convenience are no longer luxuries—they are necessities. Telehealth has revolutionized how we access medical care, offering patients the ability to consult with doctors from the comfort of their own homes. However, not all telehealth services are created equal. To ensure you receive the best possible care, it’s essential to choose a provider that excels in accessibility and convenience. Let’s delve into what these factors entail and see how My Virtual Physician sets the gold standard.
Life doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do health concerns. One of the most significant advantages of telehealth is the flexibility it offers, but only if the provider offers around-the-clock availability. Whether it’s a late-night fever or a weekend injury, having access to care whenever you need it is crucial.
My Virtual Physician offers 24/7 appointment scheduling, ensuring you can book a consultation at any time that suits your needs. This flexibility means you no longer have to wait days or even weeks to see a doctor. Our goal is to provide timely care, addressing your health concerns when they arise—not after they’ve worsened.
A seamless telehealth experience depends on easy-to-use technology. Complicated platforms can deter patients from seeking care and create unnecessary stress. Look for telehealth providers that offer simple, intuitive interfaces for scheduling appointments, attending consultations, and accessing medical records.
At My Virtual Physician, we’ve designed our platform with the patient in mind. Our user-friendly interface makes it easy to book appointments, join video calls, and view your health records. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to navigate our system—everything is straightforward and accessible, even for first-time users.
Accessibility isn’t just about time and technology; it’s also about communication. Language barriers can prevent patients from receiving the care they need and fully understanding their health conditions. A quality telehealth provider should offer multilingual support to cater to diverse populations.
My Virtual Physician is proud to provide services in multiple languages, ensuring that language is never a barrier to quality care. Our multilingual team can communicate with patients in their preferred language, fostering a more comfortable and effective healthcare experience.
Healthcare should be accessible from anywhere, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go. Telehealth platforms that work seamlessly on both mobile devices and desktops offer the greatest flexibility. This ensures you can attend a consultation from your phone, tablet, or computer.
My Virtual Physician’s platform is fully optimized for both mobile and desktop use. Whether you’re at your desk or traveling, you can connect with a doctor using the device that’s most convenient for you. This mobility ensures that quality healthcare is always within reach.
One of the most frustrating aspects of traditional healthcare is the long wait times, both in the waiting room and for appointments. Telehealth should significantly reduce these delays, providing near-immediate access to care.
With My Virtual Physician, you won’t spend hours in a virtual waiting room. Our streamlined scheduling process and efficient platform minimize wait times, allowing you to see a doctor quickly. This efficiency not only saves you time but also ensures that your health concerns are addressed promptly.
Accessibility extends beyond the consultation itself. A quality telehealth provider offers comprehensive patient support, from technical assistance to follow-up care. Having a support team available to answer questions and resolve issues enhances the overall experience.
My Virtual Physician provides robust patient support, ensuring that help is always available when you need it. Our dedicated support team can assist with technical issues, appointment scheduling, and any questions you may have about your care. This commitment to support ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
When it comes to accessibility and convenience, My Virtual Physician stands out as a leader in telehealth. Our 24/7 availability, user-friendly platform, multilingual support, and minimal wait times ensure that quality healthcare is always within your reach. We’ve designed our services to fit seamlessly into your life, making it easier than ever to prioritize your health.
Don’t let barriers stand in the way of quality care. Schedule an appointment with My Virtual Physician today and experience the convenience of accessible telehealth. Your health deserves it.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have long posed significant health challenges globally. Despite affecting millions and contributing to an estimated 3.8 million deaths annually, treatments for acute flare-ups have remained largely unchanged for half a century. That is, until now. A groundbreaking trial involving the drug benralizumab is offering new hope and could revolutionize the way these respiratory conditions are treated.
Benralizumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets eosinophils—white blood cells that play a critical role in inflammation associated with severe asthma and COPD. While already approved in low doses for ongoing severe asthma management, the new trial focused on its potential during acute flare-ups, often referred to as exacerbations.
In the study, patients experiencing an eosinophilic exacerbation received a single high dose of benralizumab. The results, published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, were striking. Compared to the conventional treatment of prednisolone (an oral steroid), benralizumab reduced the need for further interventions by 30%. Additionally, it improved key symptoms like wheezing, breathlessness, and coughing more effectively than steroids.
Conducted by researchers from King’s College London and carried out at leading NHS foundation trusts, the trial enrolled 158 participants who required emergency care for asthma or COPD attacks. The participants were divided into three groups:
After 28 days, those who received benralizumab showed significantly better respiratory outcomes. Even more impressively, by the 90-day mark, the failure rate for those in the benralizumab group was four times lower than for those treated with steroids alone. This means fewer hospital visits and a marked improvement in overall quality of life for patients.
Steroids like prednisolone have been the mainstay of acute asthma and COPD treatment for decades. However, long-term steroid use can lead to serious side effects, including an increased risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and weight gain. By reducing reliance on steroids, benralizumab offers a safer alternative for long-term health management.
Dr. Sanjay Ramakrishnan, one of the lead researchers, emphasized the urgency of modernizing COPD treatment. “COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide, but treatment is stuck in the 20th century,” he noted. The introduction of benralizumab as an acute intervention could mark a pivotal step forward.
One of the most exciting aspects of benralizumab is its potential for wider accessibility. Unlike steroids, which often require careful monitoring due to side effects, benralizumab could be administered safely at home or in a general practitioner’s office, not just in emergency settings. This could make life-saving treatment more accessible to patients in rural or underserved areas.
While the results are promising, experts highlight an ongoing concern: the lack of funding for lung health research. Dr. Samantha Walker from Asthma and Lung UK pointed out that it’s “appalling” that this breakthrough is the first significant advancement in 50 years. This gap underscores the need for more robust investment in respiratory research, which could lead to further innovations and improved outcomes for patients worldwide.
The findings from the benralizumab trial represent more than just a new treatment option—they signal a potential paradigm shift in managing asthma and COPD exacerbations. For millions of patients and their families, this breakthrough offers renewed hope and a glimpse into a future where acute respiratory attacks are less daunting and more manageable.
As we move forward, continued research and broader access to treatments like benralizumab will be crucial. This breakthrough reminds us that with dedicated research and innovation, even long-standing medical challenges can be overcome, improving lives and reshaping healthcare landscapes.
If you or a loved one is managing asthma or COPD, timely and expert care is essential. At My Virtual Physician, our dedicated team offers personalized telehealth consultations to help you stay on top of your respiratory health. Schedule an appointment today to explore treatment options, get professional guidance, and ensure you’re receiving the best care available—right from the comfort of your home. Your journey to better breathing starts here.
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The holiday season brings joy, gatherings, and festive celebrations, but it can also bring stress, unhealthy habits, and overlooked health needs. Residents of Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson can make their health a priority this holiday season by booking an appointment with My Virtual Physician. This telehealth solution offers accessible and convenient care, ensuring you stay well throughout the busiest time of the year.
Holiday schedules can be hectic, making it difficult to find time for in-person doctor visits. My Virtual Physician eliminates the hassle by bringing high-quality healthcare directly to your home or workplace. Whether you need a quick checkup or guidance for managing chronic conditions, virtual visits fit seamlessly into your routine, helping you stay focused on holiday preparations.
The holidays often come with increased stress, whether from planning events, traveling, or managing finances. Stress can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Virtual visits with My Virtual Physician provide a platform to discuss stress management strategies, mental health support, or lifestyle adjustments tailored to your needs.
Use the holiday season to catch up on preventative care. My Virtual Physician offers services like health screenings, immunizations, and chronic disease management. Addressing your health now ensures that you start the new year with a clean bill of health and a renewed focus on your wellness goals.
Cold and flu season often peaks during the holidays. My Virtual Physician is equipped to diagnose and treat common winter illnesses without the need for an in-office visit. If you or a family member starts to feel under the weather, quick access to virtual care ensures a speedy recovery, so you can get back to enjoying the festivities.
Holiday indulgences can sometimes lead to weight gain or the exacerbation of existing health conditions. By consulting with My Virtual Physician, you can create a personalized health plan that balances holiday treats with smart choices. This proactive approach helps you maintain your health and energy through the season.
The holidays should be a time of joy, not a season of stress and illness. Residents in Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson can rely on My Virtual Physician for convenient, expert care that fits their holiday schedules. Do not wait—book an appointment today to prioritize your health and start the new year strong.
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Our previous post covered a brief introduction into what GLP-1 receptor agonist medications are. In this post we will expand a little further on the three main injectable GLP-1 medications on the market: liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide.
With regards to weight loss (as can be seen in the table), tirzepatide appears to perform the best of the three and liraglutide appears to be the least effective. For example, if we look at patients who successfully lost at least 10% of their body weight, we see that 76.7% of those on tirzepatide achieved this goal, 69.1% of those on semaglutide achieved it, and only 33.1% of those on liraglutide achieved it. The results for those in the placebo groups were all roughly comparable across all three drugs, thus suggesting that this is a roughly fair comparison. As one might expect, they all have fairly similar side effect profiles. And importantly of note, they all carry a potential risk of causing or exacerbating thyroid tumors. Consequently, patients with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer should make sure to discuss this with their physician before taking any of these medications.
In order to accurately consider the true cost-benefit ratio of medication you need to know the actual cost. Pricing for prescription medications is notoriously and deliberately obscure. The actual prices paid can vary enormously from state to state, from pharmacy to pharmacy, with different insurance companies, and even if you self-pay out of pocket. It can be surprisingly difficult to get a straightforward “universal price” for a prescription medication. The current “list prices” (like an MSRP) for liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide are all roughly around $1,000 to $1,300 per month. And, as mentioned previously, there is not currently a generic version of any of the three GLP-1 receptor agonists we have been discussing. Consequently, while it is difficult to state the exact price at any given time, there currently is not a strong cost benefit to any of them versus the others.
However, as noted previously, liraglutide’s patent is set to expire in June of this year (2024). That means that we can reasonably expect a generic version to hit the market shortly thereafter. So, to answer the title question of whether or not there is a generic version of Ozempic, the answer is: “No, not quite yet in February 2024. But also yes, one of its major competitors should have a generic option later in 2024.” Once a generic option of liraglutide is on the market, its price will likely drop dramatically in short order. And as more generic manufacturers start producing liraglutide, the faster the price will decrease.
While it is regrettable that liraglutide seems to be the least effective of the GLP-1 medications for weight loss, it will also soon be the least expensive of them BY FAR -- and for the foreseeable future until semaglutide’s patent expires in 2031! Nevertheless, liraglutide is still undeniably an effective medication for weight loss and already has an FDA approval to be used as such. Furthermore, it is likely to cost a fraction of its competitors in late 2024. Consequently, it is highly probable that liraglutide will soon become the most cost effective medication for treating obesity within the not too distant future.
Chances are you've probably seen advertisements for drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss. In fact, you probably even know someone who is taking one of them. So you may be wondering: what are they? Are they safe? And, perhaps more importantly, do they actually even work? Well, let’s get into it!
All these medications belong to a class of drugs called “GLP-1 receptor agonists” because they stimulate the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor in the pancreas, which is a crucially important organ for regulating an individual’s blood sugar levels. Somewhat amusingly, these GLP-1 agonists were originally developed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, since they stimulate an increase in insulin secretion (a hormone that lowers blood sugar) and a decrease in glucagon secretion (a hormone that counteracts insulin and raises blood sugar). However --and very serendipitously for the pharmaceutical companies-- it was subsequently discovered that one of the side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists was weight loss! The pharmaceutical companies accidentally hit upon the proverbial jackpot.
Perhaps surprisingly, this type of accidental discovery happens all the time in pharmacology. A drug initially being developed for one purpose is found to have a “side effect” that may actually be more desirable than the original effect for which it was being developed. For example, sildenafil and minoxidil (better known by their brand names Viagra and Rogaine, respectively) both began their now-vaunted lives as failed blood pressure medications. So, too, with GLP-1 agonists.
While diabetes affects roughly 12% of the American population (certainly nothing to snub one’s nose at from a market opportunity perspective), the combined number of people who are either overweight or obese represent approximately 70+% of the American population -- and that is an almost irresistible siren call to the pharmaceutical companies to quickly repurpose those drugs as treatments for weight loss before the 20-year life of their patents expire!
In fact, the two brand name medications mentioned in the opening of this blog (Ozempic and Wegovy) are actually molecularly the exact same drug: semaglutide. It merely started being marketed to the general public as “Wegovy” once it received FDA approval to be sold as a weight loss drug versus an antidiabetic drug. Now, we must be clear: there is nothing necessarily wrong or untoward about marketing the same drug under a different brand name for treating different ailments (just check the variants of Excedrin!). One could even make the argument that it may be useful to help reduce potential confusion amongst consumers. Nevertheless, it is also useful for the informed consumer to know when the exact same thing is being marketed to them very differently under two different brand names intended to suggest the understanding that they are completely different products.
So, why even bring this up? The reason why it is important to understand this background information is because there are actually three prominent GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs currently on the market, and they all behave roughly in a similar manner: similar mechanism of action, similar effects, similar benefits, and similar undesirable side effects. These three drugs are liraglutide (name brands Victoza and Saxenda), semaglutide (name brands Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy), and tirzepatide (name brands Mounjaro and Zepbound). So far, only liraglutide and semaglutide have been approved by the FDA for weight loss, but tirzepatide’s FDA approval is likely only a matter of time. What’s notable at the present time is that liraglutide’s patent is set to expire in June of 2024, meaning that we can likely expect a much less expensive generic version to hit the market shortly thereafter.
Consequently, to be an informed consumer, it is worth considering how these three drugs stack up against each other to know which is the best optimization of costs to benefits. And, if one of them is about to considerably drop in price this year, how should that affect our decision matrix? So let’s compare these three GLP-1 receptor agonists!
Did you know that the CDC reports nearly 700 Americans die each summer from extreme heat? Higher outdoor temperatures can lead to hyperthermia (high body temperature), ultimately resulting in complications. It's August, and we are getting closer to fall. However, summer is not over yet.
Prolonged heat exposure in the summer months can cause heat stroke and dehydration. What's more, extreme heat can worsen certain health concerns, including heart problems. Complications and illnesses due to heat are preventable.
Here we explain why high summer temperatures are concerning and what precautions you should take this summer.
Intense heat presents a health risk for everyone, especially those with heart conditions. They face danger and even an increased risk of death. That is because the way that our bodies adjust to heat can cause internal stress and even restrict blood flow. Also, blood pressure can increase when the body tries to cool itself, which strains vessels and the heart.
If you have ever had a stroke or a heart attack, your body may not be strong enough to compensate for the strain caused by extreme heat. If you start to feel sick or extremely uncomfortable from the heat, it could be a sign that something is going on. So, you should take action to calm and cool the body.
Here are a few ways to help your body manage the stress of extreme temperatures this summer.
During the summer, you must stay hydrated. Taking in enough fluids each day is essential to avoiding heat-related complications. Unless your doctor restricts your fluid intake because of heart or kidney disease, you should drink plenty of water. Avoid caffeinated beverages. Also, eat fruits that are high in water content, such as:
Fruits also contain fiber, which can help balance your body's hydration.
Note: If your doctor has limited your water intake, ask how much you should drink this summer.
This summer, avoiding sugary drinks like soda and juices would be best because they may increase the risks of high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. They can also lead to a "sugar crash," which can drain your energy and harm your teeth.
Salts and other minerals in the body are essential for vital body functions, including:
Heavy sweating during the summer results in loss of electrolytes, like salts and minerals. It is best to replenish electrolytes during this season through a balanced diet. Consider adding a multivitamin to your diet to stay healthy so that you will be able to avoid heat-related health complications this summer.
If you are going to be outside during the summer, experts recommend wearing loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes. Light color clothes absorb less heat and may reflect the sun's rays compared to dark colors and heavy clothes.
In extreme heat, it is best to stay indoors in air-conditioned places. If you do not have air-conditioning at home, you could go to a public place like the library. Resting in air-conditioned buildings for part of the day will cool your body. Remember that fans can make you comfortable but may not prevent heat-related complications when the temperature is very high.
If you don't have adequate air conditioning, you can also try to take a cool bath or shower.
Avoid using your stove and oven as much as possible to keep your home cool.
If you must be outside, try to schedule outdoor activities during the coolest times of day, morning and evening hours. Rest in shady areas.
It is important to use sunblock because sunburn reduces your body's ability to cool down. It also makes you vulnerable to dehydration.
You may be able to prevent sunburn by wearing hats, sunglasses, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen outdoors. Try to apply SPF 15 or higher sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors.
Although anyone can suffer from heat-related complications, some people are at higher risk. These may include:
If you have loved ones at risk this summer, visit them or check on them frequently, especially during the day. Children and older adults may need extra help during summer.
Also, watch local news updates on extreme temperatures and safety precautions.
If you or someone you know is not tolerating extreme heat this summer, here are some of the signs and symptoms you might notice.
If you are with someone who complains of these heat-related symptoms, help them find a place to rest and cool off with a fan and a cold towel. Call a healthcare provider if the symptoms do not improve.
Talk with one of our expert doctors if you want to learn more about virtual services. My Virtual Physician offers video consultations for non-emergency care to older adults and children. If you need to see a doctor, book now.
Contact us today to find out how you can book a consultation appointment.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. The information, graphics, and images on this site are not intended to substitute diagnosis or treatment by a medical professional. Always seek the advice of a licensed physician for any questions you may have regarding a specific condition.
“Extreme Weather and Your Heart: What You Need to Know When It Gets Really HOT!”. secondscount.org. Accessed July 31, 2022.
“Heat Exposure and Cardiovascular Health: A Summary for Health Departments”. cdc.gov. Accessed July 31, 2022.
“Heat-related health dangers for older adults soar during the summer”. nih.gov. Accessed July 31, 2022.
"Work Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Elements of Your Written Program and Effective Work Practices". dir.ca.gov. Accessed July 31, 2022.
“15 Water Rich Fruits To Keep Your Hydrated in Summer | List Of Water Rich Fruits | Fruits With Highest Water Content”. seniority.in. Accessed July 31, 2022.
Sarah Falcone, BSN, RN, WCN-C, CSWD-C, is a registered nurse in Fort Worth, TX. She works with clients in home health, wound care, and telemedicine. Sarah is a passionate advocate for moving advanced levels of care to the home, where her clients can safely receive the medical treatments they need with greater satisfaction and comfort. She focuses on patient experience, outcomes, and advancing clinical models using innovative technology to serve patients better. Sarah draws from 15 years of practicing patient care and nursing leadership to share her own nursing experiences and expertise online. Connect with her on LinkedIn!
The saying goes, “time heals all wounds.” Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Chronic wounds might go on for weeks or months. In many cases, you may not recover without medical treatment.
A non-healing or chronic wound is a skin injury that does not follow the normal healing course. Most wounds close within 7–14 days. You may need wound care if you have a cut, ulcer, or open wound that doesn’t heal. Prolonged wounds, if left untreated, may lead to severe complications.
Non-healing, or chronic, wounds show unique signs, including:
The most common reasons why wounds don't heal include:
You may benefit from telemedicine wound care if you have a non-healing or chronic wound. Telemedicine uses online doctor consultations or virtual visits. Globally, 75 percent of people will have utilized telemedicine services in 2021.
“Tele” means “at or over a distance. “So, the term “telemedicine” (TM) refers to the practice of medicine using technology to diagnose and deliver treatment to patients over long distances.
TM is a new and rapidly developing field. Wound healing and wound management are excellent examples of how TM wound care improves care.
In telemedicine wound care, a medical professional, usually a doctor, will perform an interview and a visual examination through a video visit.
The physician may also converse with and respond to inquiries from the patient and their caregiver through secure real-time video. The nurse in the immediate vicinity will apply treatments as directed by the expert.
There are many reasons individuals may not be able to see a doctor for a non-healing wound. Reasons that some patients are choosing telemedicine wound care include:
With the help of the internet and smart devices like mobile phones and tablets, telemedicine (TM) has become feasible to manage chronic wounds better.
Virtual wound care involves online care of your wound. It may help you recover faster. Virtual wound care is becoming increasingly popular because it offers many advantages over in-person visits.
Virtual wound care is a convenient way to get the care you need without leaving home. There are many benefits to using telemedicine wound care, including convenience, better assessment, and time savings.
Here are some of the reasons to consider telemedicine for wounds.
All these advantages can help improve the quality of care for wound patients. Telemedicine can also help reduce costs, improve access to care, promote collaboration between clinicians, and improve patient education.
Chronic wounds can take a long time to heal, requiring regular monitoring and many follow-ups. That’s why telemedicine has become an excellent option for patients who need wound care for non-healing wounds. Telemedicine helps patients receive faster wound treatment recommendations from the telemedicine wound doctor; thus, there is quicker wound healing.
Talk with one of our expert doctors if you want to learn more about virtual services or wound care without walls. My Virtual Physician offers video consultations for non-healing wounds.
Contact us today to find out how you can book a wound consultation appointment.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. The information, graphics, and images on this site are not intended to substitute diagnosis or treatment by a medical professional. Always seek the advice of a licensed physician for any questions you may have regarding a specific condition.
"Telehealth in Wound Care - Evidence and Best Practices". woundreference.com. Accessed July 25, 2022.
"Wound Center Without Walls". ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed July 25, 2022.
Sarah Falcone, BSN, RN, WCN-C, CSWD-C, is a certified wound care nurse, nursing consultant, and health content writer in Fort Worth, TX. She works with clients in home health, wound care, and telemedicine. Sarah is a passionate advocate for moving advanced levels of care to the home, where her clients can safely receive the medical treatments they need with greater satisfaction and comfort. She focuses on patient experience, outcomes, and advancing clinical models using innovative technology to serve patients better. Sarah draws from 15 years of practicing patient care and nursing leadership to share her own nursing experiences and expertise online. Connect with her on LinkedIn!
As medical and technical advances improve patient care, a new concept is helping the millions of Americans affected by chronic and non-healing wounds. The idea is called Wound Center Without Walls (WCWW). It means providing wound care services outside the physical walls of a wound clinic.
An article published in 2020 in the Wounds journal introduced the idea of providing wound care services outside the traditional brick-and-mortar wound care center.
WCWW untethers wound care from a physical location. Rather, it uses technology and community-centered care to aggressively triage and provide care to patients with wounds.
This new model of providing care was developed in response to the disruptions in healthcare caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many patients could not get to their on-site wound clinic appointments due to closures, lock-downs, and fears about leaving home. One study suggested that outpatient wound clinic volume dropped 40% during spring 2020.
In fact, the U.S. experienced rapid telehealth adoption, with an 11,718% increase in telemedicine services among Medicare beneficiaries that year.
Following the pandemic, healthcare providers and patients have realized the value of virtual wound care services. These programs improve access to care and also address the needs of underserved or rural areas where wound specialists may not be available.
Wound care without walls aims to assess and treat patients where they live. This home-based monitoring and treatment strategy may lower risks and improve outcomes.
Telehealth has become an important tool in the management of chronic wounds. Today we have digital tools that are secure, efficient, and easy to use. Mobile apps let patients use their smartphones or tablets to take measurements and send wound images directly to their electronic medical records (EMRs).
Digital imaging tools also give providers more accurate measurements and assessments in many cases. Furthermore, using these tools to optimize wound treatment plans keeps patients and providers engaged.
In cases where a telemedicine consultation is needed, telemedicine providers can meet with patients virtually via video conference. What’s more, with real-time communication, nurses and doctors can even show and tell patients and families:
Telemedicine services are also giving patients treatment reminders and support along the way.
Patients need WCWW because the prevalence of chronic wounds and their healthcare costs are rising. A 2018 study of Medicare beneficiaries found about 8.2 million individuals with wounds.
A large recent study showed that nearly 15% of Medicare beneficiaries presented with a chronic wound or wound infection over a year. Furthermore, Medicare expenditures related to wound care are far greater than previously recognized, with care occurring largely in outpatient settings.
Wounds may result from diabetes, circulatory problems, or pressure injury. Open wounds increase a patient’s risk of infection and need emergency room visits or hospitalization. Specialized wound care treatment is essential to healing wounds quickly with less expense and pain and suffering to the patient.
In short, healthcare providers and patients will surely see an increase in wound care without walls programs. Patients and providers are becoming more comfortable connecting through digital tools, and payers support care that improves outcomes and lowers costs.
Talk with one of our expert doctors if you want to learn more about virtual services or wound care without walls. My Virtual Physician offers video consultations for diabetic, surgical, and other wounds.
Contact us now to find out how you can book your free or low-cost appointment for wound treatment.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. The information, graphics, and images on this site are not intended to substitute diagnosis or treatment by a medical professional. Always seek the advice of a licensed physician for any questions you may have regarding a specific condition.
"An Economic Evaluation of the Impact, Cost, and Medicare Policy Implications of Chronic Nonhealing Wounds". pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed July 2, 2022.
"Human Wounds and Its Burden". ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed July 2, 2022.
"Medicare Members Using Telehealth Grew 120 times". healthcaredive.com. Accessed July 2, 2022.
"Outpatient Wound Clinics During COVID-19". ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed July 2, 2022.
"Telehealth in Wound Care - Evidence and Best Practices". woundreference.com. Accessed July 2, 2022.
"Wound Center Without Walls". ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed July 2, 2022.
Sarah Falcone, BSN, RN, WCN-C, CSWD-C, is a certified wound care nurse, nursing consultant, and health content writer in Fort Worth, TX. She works with clients in home health, wound care, and telemedicine. Sarah is a passionate advocate for moving advanced levels of care to the home, where her clients can safely receive the medical treatments they need with greater satisfaction and comfort. She focuses on patient experience, outcomes, and advancing clinical models using innovative technology to serve patients better. Sarah draws from 15 years of practicing patient care and nursing leadership to share her own nursing experiences and expertise online. Connect with her on LinkedIn!
Telemedicine gained a foothold during the pandemic. By the end of 2021, digital doctor visits had increased by 63% over two years, according to a government study. And the trend seems to be holding strong, with many physicians and facilities–Las Vegas gynecologists included–continuing to provide telehealth access, post-pandemic.
While telemedicine has proven valuable and trends show that it’s here to stay, there are some limitations. In this blog, we’ll briefly cover some obstacles inherent to telehealth along with our proposed solution: hybrid clinics.
While telemedicine was literally a life-saver throughout the pandemic, it comes with its limits. The most glaring limitation is the lack of a hands-on physical exam. For standard consultations, this is usually not an issue; but if certain diagnostic services are required, like pelvic exams or getting labs done, it gets a little trickier.
Another problem that telemedicine presents is patient access. Telemedicine requires some expensive equipment that not all patients have on hand; that we often take for granted. A virtual visit requires the following:
Even if you do have this equipment, you still must count on many factors to be in working order to participate in telemedicine appointments.
Related: Telemedicine Improves Access to Prenatal Care, But Can We Improve Access to Telemedicine
A third limitation of telemedicine is simply that some patients prefer the traditional visit to a doctor’s office. An in-office visit to a clinic where a real person is physically present to assist is preferable to some, especially those who are technology-illiterate, have certain disabilities, or struggle with the English language.
For those who feel telemedicine is not suitable to meet their comprehensive healthcare needs, hybrid clinics provide another pathway. My Virtual Physician is embracing this new solution, which offers our patients a new healthcare experience where they can have their gynecology or other healthcare needs met right there on the Las Vegas strip.
A hybrid medical clinic is a physical building that offers some of the same services that you would expect from a traditional in-person doctor’s visit while also providing the equipment to meet virtually with your doctor. My Virtual Physician’s hybrid clinics are located at:
Our hybrid clinic will open its doors to walk-in patients as well as those who schedule an appointment. As you enter the clinic, our Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) will welcome you, take your vital signs, and collect any urine samples, if required. You’ll then be guided into a private room where the telehealth equipment is set up for you to meet virtually with our board-certified physicians. Our staff is here to help in the event that you need any further assistance.
Just a handful of the additional services that we can provide inside our hybrid clinics include the following:
*by appointment only when a nurse or specialist is required
Related: My Virtual Physician’s List of Women’s Telemedicine Services
My Virtual Physician is excited to offer this new hybrid option to patients who prefer the in-person experience or who do not have access to the special equipment required for virtual visits or special services. While we understand that the hybrid clinic is not for everyone, or maybe just not for every visit, we have made it a priority to provide a physical alternative to the fully digital world of telemedicine.
Our intention is to provide value to our patients by offering in-person services as an option at our hybrid clinics. We deliver this as a solution to the limitations we find in telemedicine alone. Our hybrid clinic provides a nearby physical hub for specimen collection, as well as ultrasound, for prompt confirmations and diagnoses.
Our hybrid clinics will provide a safe, private, and well-equipped place for you to meet virtually with your OBGYN in Las Vegas to discuss your health needs. Come visit our friendly staff at our two hybrid locations today!
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Telemedicine provides a convenient way to get the care you need without traveling to the doctor or specialist you need. Virtual care, or Telehealth, has been around for a while, but recent changes in healthcare have caused telemedicine services to surge.
In the past, telemedicine visits were used primarily as urgent care encounters. If you had symptoms of a cold, you could chat with a Tel-a-doc and maybe get antibiotics.
Today, telemedicine services have expanded. And patients can see their telemedicine doctor for gynecologic, primary, and even wound care. In this post, we will look at how telemedicine has become a solution for patients with chronic or non-healing wounds by answering these questions.
Read on to learn more about telemedicine as a wound care solution.
Telemedicine is a healthcare delivery model that involves virtual consultations between patients and physicians, using online tools such as video conferencing, virtual examination rooms, and remote medical devices.
In many situations, telemedicine is ideal for individuals with wounds.
Those injured or struggling with chronic wounds may not feel like leaving home. Or they may be physically unable to leave home without assistance.
Often their caregivers work and cannot take time from work for frequent doctor appointments. Also, depending on where an individual lives, there may not be a wound specialist in the area. If there is a local certified wound care expert, they may have limited availability.
So, wound care appointments may be difficult to get.
Telemedicine providers with specialized training and certification in wound care can save patients and their families frequent trips to their doctor or wound clinic. Telemedicine for wound care is efficient. Doctors can conduct virtual visits, see the wounds, and make treatment recommendations through video.
Telemedicine also lets patients have virtual follow-up conversations with their doctors and send images when the wounds change.
Telemedicine decreases costs by reducing the need to travel long distances to the hospital or to consult with a physician. It improves the quality of life for patients with chronic wounds while maintaining high standards of wound care.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, federal and state programs (Medicare and Medicaid) and private insurers have expanded coverage for telemedicine services, including wound care.
That is good news for patients with wounds who need to see a specialist. In many cases, your health insurance will cover the cost of your virtual visit and wound care supplies that your provider orders.
Your insurance may cover a virtual doctor visit for treatment if you have:
You can check with your insurance company to find out what they will cover or talk with a telemedicine provider and have them verify your insurance coverage before making an appointment.
Wound care specialists provide a variety of services through telemedicine. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, Telehealth services are especially helpful for monitoring and improving ongoing health issues, like chronic wounds.
A telemedicine wound care specialist can evaluate and treat wounds virtually by:
These services help patients get the right treatment to heal the wound quickly and return to normal lives.
Telemedicine specialists also coordinate your care with your other doctors or home health.
There are many advantages of using telemedicine wound care services, including:
It’s easy to see why telemedicine wound care services are growing.
While there are numerous benefits of telemedicine for patients, primary among them is the ease of convenience and the ability to access quality care fast. Wound care services provided through telemedicine are a great example of a wound care solution that is helping many individuals get the care they need.
If you have a skin wound that needs medical attention, talk with the My Virtual Physician team to find out if their telemedicine wound care services are right for you.
Contact us now for your low-cost appointment that your insurance may cover!
The practice of obstetrics and gynecology is majorly hands-on. However, you can establish your appointments with an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) via telehealth. There are several purposes a telehealth visit can serve including antenatal care, prescription refills, substance use, breastfeeding, and many more.
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Several services can be provided via a telehealth visit with an OB-GYN specialist or an affiliated general physician.
You may book a telehealth visit with an OB-GYN doctor in any of the following situations:
In some cases, the outcomes of these appointments may be a need for an in-person visit. Usually, you may be asked to come in for an in-person visit if you:
Firstly, you will need to search for and select a telemedicine platform that offers Ob-Gyn services. At other times, you may search for an Ob-Gyn that offers telehealth visits. Either way works. If the Ob-Gyn facility you use provides telehealth services, you may continue with them.
Most insurance providers cover telehealth visits as they are treated as outpatient hospital visits. However, check-in with the facility or platform of choice if your insurance plans can cover your telehealth visits with them.
Once you book your appointment, you can prepare ahead and ensure a productive session. These simple steps may help:
My virtual physician provides a wide range of Ob-Gyn services. We have a team of certified obstetricians and gynecologists available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
We are in-network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Pregnancy is a beautiful period and process that every mother should enjoy while looking forward to welcoming her babies. However, it does come at a price.
Several women experience different forms of discomfort during pregnancy, leading to anxiety. While some may be fleeting, others may last for longer periods. Some could be experienced early in pregnancy, some later or even closer to delivery, and others may emerge earlier, go away and later return.
In this article, we will be highlighting several discomforts a pregnant woman may experience, causes, and simple relief measures.
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The are several discomforts that pregnant women experience. 25 of them are listed below but are not limited to the following:
Discomforts may be experienced in all the trimesters. Hence, their causes vary depending on the age of the pregnancy. Additionally, some discomforts may lead to other discomforts.
The following are causes of the various pregnancy discomforts mentioned above:
The following measures help prevent and relieve the pregnancy discomforts you may feel.
At My Virtual Physician, we help you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
Additionally, we are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, improves access to healthcare without being physically present at a healthcare facility. Over digital devices with an internet connection, people can speak with a doctor and get all the help they need.
Although introduced in the late 1950s, the need and use of telehealth services recently peaked during the Covid-19 pandemic. For several reasons including lockdown restrictions, fear of getting infected, and increased burden on the healthcare system, thousands of people could not leave their homes to visit a healthcare facility. While things are seemingly back to normal, telemedicine might be here to stay for good.
The question then arises, does my health insurance cover telehealth? The answer is music to the ears. Medicare covers a wide range of medical and health-related services, and that includes telehealth. In this article, we will discuss what parts of Medicare cover telehealth services.
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Medicare is made up of different parts namely:
Each of these parts covers different medical and health-related services. Telehealth is covered by Medicare parts B and C.
Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, and since telehealth visits are treated as such, it covers telehealth services. Hence, you may enjoy the services of the following health professionals:
According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the outpatient-related telehealth services you may enjoy include:
Additionally, the price is the same. The amount people with Medicare pay for in-person outpatient services is the same amount for telehealth services. According to the CMS, Medicare covers 80% while the personal pays 20% of the cost of standard services. Some of these healthcare services may start with an in-person visit and continue with virtual visits.
Medicare Part B can also cover emergency (ambulance) transportation and limited non-emergency rides. So, if a client with Medicare needs transportation to a healthcare facility for follow-up care, its cost may be covered. The same goes for non-emergency transportation. If a client is nonambulatory or needs monitoring in transit to another facility, the cost of transportation may be covered. Clients are to check if Medicare can cover their transportation needs.
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage is sold by private insurance companies. In 2020, it was upgraded to provide increased access to telemedicine services from home. Generally, it has the same coverage for telehealth services as original Medicare (Part A and B) but may come with additional benefits.
Since it is provided by private insurance companies, the plans may be different. Individuals should check their specific plans with their insurance provider to know what telehealth services they are entitled to enjoy.
At My Virtual Physician, we are in-network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
Our team is committed to ensuring that patients get the best of health care as needed. We provide virtual care at any point in your pregnancy while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
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Pregnancy is marked with several symptoms. However, it is important to know that while certain symptoms are "normal", others are cause for alarm.
Telemedicine in prenatal care helps bridge the gap and save time during emergencies. You can get in touch with a virtual physician before you book an appointment with your local OB doctor. Your questions could get an immediate answer and help prevent your symptoms from worsening and resulting in complications.
In this article, we will be discussing alarming signs you should watch out for during pregnancy. These signs require immediate medical attention either by getting a call across to a doctor or getting to a medical facility as soon as possible.
Light bleeding, also known as vaginal spotting during the first few weeks of pregnancy can be normal. At such times, it may be described as implantation bleeding.
However, bleeding could be a warning sign, especially if it is heavy and accompanied by other symptoms. Bleeding accompanied by severe abdominal or pelvic pain, feeling faint, and shoulder pain could be indicative of ectopic pregnancy.
Additionally, the timing of the bleeding could mean different things. Heavy bleeding with severe cramping in the first or early second trimester is a sign of a miscarriage. However, if the heavy bleeding with cramps occurs in your third trimester, it may be a sign of placental abruption or placenta previa.
Any form of bleeding in pregnancy is an alarming sign. Immediately, call your doctor or go to the emergency room.
Nausea and vomiting, also referred to as morning sickness, is a common sign of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
However, severe nausea and vomiting can make you dehydrated which isn't safe for you and your baby. Contact your healthcare provider who will assess you, and may prescribe medication or advise changing your diet.
Headaches, although worrisome, can be normal in pregnancy. They could be due to stress, hormonal changes, fatigue, etc.
However, a severe headache is a warning sign. It may be a sign of high blood pressure or preeclampsia, which is a serious high blood pressure disorder that develops usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. Symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling, and excess protein in your urine. Seek immediate medical attention as it can affect your health, and your baby's health, and is potentially fatal.
Visual disturbances such as light sensitivity, blurred vision, and temporary loss of vision are warning signs. They could be due to many factors including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, which require medical attention and monitoring. Call your healthcare provider if you experience any changes in eyesight.
Sudden, extreme weight gain can be linked to serious conditions such as preeclampsia. Swelling (edema) and puffiness often occur in the face, hands, and feet. This may be normal, however, it should be monitored. It may also be a sign of preeclampsia. Call your doctor when you experience any of these.
Usually, women begin to feel the baby's movements between 18 to 25 weeks of pregnancy. By the third trimester, the baby's movements are more frequent and trackable.
Once you feel your baby's movements are absent or have significantly declined, you may first eat a light snack or drink something cold. Then, lie on your side and try again. However, if this continues, call your health provider.
Contractions early in the third trimester refer to the contractions you feel before the end of the 37th week of pregnancy. Typically, you may have felt light or false labor contractions known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These usually stop when you move or change positions, and drink water.
However, if your contractions persist, become regular, and increase in intensity despite a change in position, it may be a sign of preterm labor. Seek medical attention immediately.
Medically, this is known as "premature rupture of membranes" where you feel or see a trickle, leak, or gush of fluid from your vagina before the end of the 37th week of your pregnancy.
Your water breaking normally is a sign of labor. If it happens before the end of the 37th week of your pregnancy, you may be having preterm labor. If this happens, call your doctor immediately.
At My Virtual Physician, we help you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
Additionally, we are in-network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
Telemedicine is the practice of using digital technology to provide care remotely. To ensure telemedicine in prenatal care is possible, accessible, and effective, there are several pieces of equipment that you may need.
While there are several types of telemedicine including store-and-forward, real-time, and remote monitoring, real-time telemedicine is the most common and used. Real-time telemedicine involves live consultations between physicians and patients via audio and video calls.
In store-and-forward telemedicine, as the name implies, healthcare providers and patients communicate and exchange medical information, usually at different times using HIPAA-compliant platforms.
Remote monitoring is used to examine or monitor patients without an in-person visit using certain equipment that record, transmit, and store patient data.
Each of these forms of telemedicine requires equipment and devices. In this article, we discuss what types of equipment are needed by both or one of the physician or the pregnant woman and her family.
Remote patient monitoring as a form of telemedicine is majorly device-based. At times, a patient may be asked to get a standard home care kit that contains most if not all of the below:
These telemedicine devices are used to monitor, record, and transmit patient health data directly to physicians, nurses, or other healthcare providers. Most of these devices are programmed to automatically record and transmit the data they collect. These data are transmitted via the internet or Bluetooth technology.
This process enables healthcare providers to monitor pregnant clients without a physical appointment, especially women with diabetes, hypertensive disorders, or who are just recovering from an illness. Also, they can address concerns promptly preventing late diagnosis and complications.
Virtual consultations majorly use the real-time and store-and-forward forms of telemedicine. They rely largely on are largely dependent on telecommunication devices and software because they are best suited for video consultations, basic visual exams, scans, counseling, therapy, and follow-up care.
The following are the equipment needed for virtual consultations including:
At My Virtual Physician, our team is committed to ensuring that patients get the best of health care as needed.
We provide virtual care at any point in your pregnancy while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
We are in-network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
The pandemic opened the door to broader use of virtual healthcare. Whether it was fear or a deliberate attempt to reduce the risk of a Covid-19 infection, the shift to telemedicine in the healthcare sector was welcomed by healthcare professionals, patients, and stakeholders. As the search to access and deliver health care became frantic, several measures were put in place by both health care providers and beneficiaries with statistics showing a 38 times increase in telehealth use from the pre-COVID-19 baseline. By April 2020, telemedicine visits were 78 higher than the visits in February 2020.
The pandemic is slowly becoming a part of us and the healthcare system with many operations going back to normal, or rather, their pre-pandemic state. There seems to be a relaxation in the provision and use of telehealth platforms. In some cases, the measures put in place to improve access to telemedicine seem to be nowhere in sight. Hence, the question is, how can we improve access to telemedicine?
Telemedicine has increased access and delivery of several health services over the past 1 to 2 years, including prenatal care. Virtual prenatal care has not only reduced the risk for Covid-19 infection but has increased consumer satisfaction and self-efficiency in patients. It has proven beneficial to the health, growth, and development of both mother and child during pregnancy.
Women are able to book appointments with their local doctors, nurses and midwives, as well as specialists depending on their needs. They have also been able to enjoy care at their convenience and at lower costs. However, not all women enjoy access to telemedicine. Certain provisions that were made during the pandemic have been unavailable since things started returning to normal. While there is still an optimal use of telemedicine, several populations may not enjoy access to it. For example, pregnant women living with disabilities, those in areas with limited access to internet and devices, women with low digital literacy, and patients with limited English proficiency.
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There should be no discrimination against people living with disabilities. Hence, there is a call for equal access to healthcare services, including telemedicine services.
There are several ways to achieve equal access to telehealth services, including:
There are women, especially those in rural areas who lack access to adequate broadband internet and digital devices. This makes telemedicine almost impossible. To improve access:
Poor digital literacy can affect your delivery and the quality of care your patients will receive. You could:
Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) may find it difficult to understand virtual visits conducted in English. Hence, telemedicine platforms should provide language services to aid access by LEP patients. These include oral interpretation and written translation.
Usually, there are major languages spoken by a group of people including English, Mandarin, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Hence;
At My Virtual Physician, we provide a wholesome prenatal care service that involves the health of your baby as well. As a telehealth platform, a visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor.
More so, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Prenatal care is focused, not only on the health of the mother but also on that of the growing fetus. Fetal monitoring is an integral part of prenatal care, done in pregnancy and labor. Also known as fetal heart rate monitoring, it is a procedure carried out by trained care providers including Obstetricians, nurses, and midwives, who use instruments and devices to measure, monitor, and interpret the baby's heartbeat.
Fetal monitoring affects the lives of millions of women and infants every year in the United States. It says a lot about the health, growth, and development of your baby. We may say that your baby's heart rate is a method of communication because it is often a response to the conditions in your uterus.
The average fetal heart rate is between 110 and 160 beats per minute. If your baby is under distress, not getting enough oxygen, or is facing any other problem, the heart rate becomes abnormal with the heart beating either too fast or too slow.
Fetal monitoring is particularly helpful for women with high-risk pregnancies, that is women:
This is because these conditions affect the growth and development of the baby. The number of fetal monitoring for these women is usually around 10-15 routine monitoring per woman.
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In medical practice, fetal monitoring is carried out in one of two ways:
This method is also known as auscultation. In this method, a device or monitor is placed on your abdomen. The device amplifies the sound of your baby's heartbeat, listens to it, and records.
A common monitor is the Doppler ultrasound device. It is often used during your prenatal visits to measure your baby's heart rate.
Another external way to check your baby's heartbeat is to use a transducer or an electronic sensor belt. A transducer is kept on your belly and connected to a computer where the rate and pattern of your baby's heartbeat are displayed. The data displayed can then be printed on paper. This device is often used to continuously count your baby's heart rate during labor and birth.
As the name implies, this method of fetal heart monitoring is invasive. It can only be done if the amniotic sac (the fluid-filled bag that surrounds and protects your baby in the uterus) has broken and your cervix has dilated to at least 2cm. Your baby's scalp is reached through your cervix and a thin wire, also known as the electrode, is fastened on it.
The thin wire is connected to a monitor and data about your baby's heart rate as well as your uterine contractions will be displayed and compared. It is used when the external fetal monitoring method is not providing satisfactory results or your baby needs to be watched closely during labor.
The two methods of fetal monitoring require the physical presence of both a healthcare provider and a pregnant woman. However, this may not always be convenient and accessible, especially with the Covid-19 pandemic, physician shortages, and for women living in rural areas.
However, the advent of telemedicine in prenatal care seems to get this taken care of with remote fetal monitoring. With telemedicine, remote solutions for home fHR monitoring and signal processing technique have been developed.
Pregnant women are instructed and trained on how to use these devices and software from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, these devices have sensors, and readings are transmitted to a monitor or cloud platform of a local doctor, nurse, midwife, or obstetrician at the healthcare facility. Certain apps and software on smart devices can remind the pregnant woman when to have a fetal monitoring session, interpret the results, and state what should be done if the results are abnormal.
While the availability and application of remote fetal monitoring devices are relatively low, it is one aspect of telemedicine in prenatal care that is being looked into to solve the challenges of accessibility and availability of prenatal care.
At My Virtual Physician, we provide a wholesome prenatal care service for both you and your baby.
We provide insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross; which shows that we care deeply for our clients.
We are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. To get the best prenatal care, contact us today!
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Diabetes in pregnancy or gestational diabetes is a condition in pregnancy where your blood sugar levels become abnormally high in pregnancy. About 3-10% of pregnant women in the United States get diagnosed with gestational diabetes each year. Diabetes, if not promptly and properly managed, can result in complications for both mother and child.
Diabetes in pregnancy increases the risk for gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and having a cesarean section. In the baby, uncontrolled gestational diabetes can result in macrosomia, preterm birth, hypoglycemia, jaundice, birth asphyxia, and stillbirth. While gestational diabetes goes away after pregnancy, it increases your risk of developing diabetes later in life and your baby's.
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The Covid-19 pandemic led to an increased burden on the healthcare system and scarcity of human and material resources. Health facilities were overworked with caring for patients with emergency and/or critical cases, including Covid-19, pulling all their weight to stop the spread of and deaths caused by the Covid-19 infection.
Consequently, non-emergency health services including prenatal care were almost unavailable and inaccessible. There were social and physical restrictions declared by governments to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Additionally, pregnant women avoided hospitals to reduce the risk of catching the virus.
Prenatal care is an essential preventive health service that impacts local, national, and international populations. Lower rates of maternal mortality and morbidity translate to positive growth and development of any country. In the United States alone, 4 million women access prenatal care each year. That's a huge number.
Telemedicine, a new but not new model of healthcare delivery emerged to connect pregnant women and healthcare providers. Studies have recorded positive outcomes from the use of telemedicine in prenatal care. Despite the lack of direct contact with their caregivers, women with diabetes in pregnancy have been proven to benefit from this approach of healthcare delivery.
It may seem that telemedicine has become a mainstay in the health system despite the loosening of the lockdown regulations. Healthcare facilities, providers, and patients have continued to utilize telemedicine as a cost-effective and convenient means of accessing and delivering care.
Telemedicine is a virtual, online version of the conventional approach to healthcare delivery. In other words, patients can connect with their caregivers using a smart device and web connection via videoconferencing, emails, text messages, and audio calls. Monitoring is also automatic or digital, with the use of devices in the immediate environment of the patient. These devices measure and record several health data.
Diabetes in pregnancy requires increased and consistent clinic visits and monitoring. Women with pregnancy complicated by diabetes get more antenatal appointments with their general physician, obstetrician, and dietitians, among others. Multiple visits translate to increased cost from care, absences from work, transport, and babysitting leading to little to no compliance by patients and resultant negative maternal-fetal outcomes.
Additionally, managing diabetes is time-consuming, requiring time to examine, educate, adjust to new lifestyle modifications of exercise, diet, routine monitoring of blood sugar levels, medications, and insulin injections. Hence, telemedicine comes as a reprieve to several time and cost-related issues in the management of diabetes.
ICT helps providers connect with their patients remotely from home or work. Virtual appointments can meet the needs of more patients and enhances the team approach in the management of diabetes by involving the patients themselves, their local doctors, obstetricians, nurses, and dietitians.
With telemedicine, patients could monitor their blood glucose levels, perform fetal movement counting, and record insulin doses and episodes of hypoglycemia. Furthermore, the quick transmission of patients' health data facilitates early detection and management of conditions associated with gestational diabetes. High-risk cases can be promptly detected, preventing complications in both mother and child, including the need for a cesarean section.
Several studies have proven that the above-stated roles of telemedicine have yielded benefits to both patients and their healthcare providers. In patients, telemedicine effectively reduced blood sugar levels as well as the risk for maternal and fetal/neonatal complications, compared to standard care. Additionally, increased patient participation led to increased positive health outcomes, behavioral outcomes, self-efficacy, patient satisfaction, and quality of life in patients.
Are you an expecting mother diagnosed with diabetes in pregnancy? At My Virtual Physician we bridge the gap while you await an appointment with your OB doctor. We are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
We are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Healthcare delivery in recent times has become safer and more convenient with the advent of telemedicine. However, the success of telehealth may be shaky because of increased security and privacy risks associated with it.
In this post, we will discuss the possible cybersecurity risks associated with telemedicine and what telemedicine companies, particularly My Virtual Physician, are doing to ensure you and your information are safe.
Despite its numerous benefits, telemedicine has been associated with both security and privacy risks outlined below.
Digital and monitoring devices are the mainstays of telemedicine. While these devices are necessary to monitor the patient's health in real-time and ensure the patient's safety, the information generated, saved, and transmitted is not often secure.
Also, there are certain non-medical data about the patient, their home, and other activities that these devices and sensors pick and transmit that the patient would have rather kept private. However, aside from healthcare providers, this information can be stored in the device by the manufacturers. Hence, increasing the risk of the information being sold to third parties or used for other reasons such as research, target advertising, and medical fraud.
Furthermore, while privacy policies are provided, most patients give consent without reading or fully understanding them. Hence, the weak privacy protections.
The HIPAA privacy rule is established to ensure the privacy of individuals' protected health information (PHI) and sets the limits or conditions through which that information can be used or disclosed without the individual's authorization.
The pandemic in 2020 led to a sharp rise in telemedicine. According to the CDC, "the number of telehealth visits increased by 50%, compared with the same period in 2019, with a 154% increase in telehealth visits during the last week of March 2020, compared with the same period in 2019".
Consequently, telehealth platforms and apps were developed rapidly within short periods, resulting in many being HIPAA non-compliant. This led to an increased risk of patients' data being accessed by, sold to, or used by third parties indiscriminately.
Most healthcare professionals and providers working from home are permitted and use their personal devices (cell phones, tablets, and computers) for work purposes. Although these devices only access healthcare systems and patient records through a VPN, the risk of data breaches remains high.
Protected health information (PHI) can be saved on and retrieved from these devices if stolen or misplaced. Also, health systems could be hacked into due to inconsistencies in security updates, insecure connections, malware, and user errors, among others.
There is an increase in the number of people working remotely.
A lot of organizations now have their employees working from home. This implies the number of people accessing the network remotely will increase, making it difficult to keep track of users and security measures. Overcrowded networks make it easy for fraudulent or unauthorized users to access healthcare systems and steal patients' information.
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Telehealth companies and healthcare facilities are required to help keep patients' data safe and confident. To do so, below are measures that should be considered:
By strong authentication, we mean the telemedicine platform provides the means to authenticate each party before they can access any confidential information.
This may include logging in with unique usernames, strong and complex passwords, biometrics, as well as provisional two or multi-factor authentication.
This is important to ensure privacy and security.
End-to-end encryption means that only the healthcare provider and the patient are parties to the communication. Once it is implemented, unauthorized persons are not able to listen to or gain access to information exchanged between the two parties, including data sent via mail or cloud.
This applies to both healthcare providers and patients. Digital devices should have the most up-to-date operating system, applications, and firmware. They should avoid connecting to public WiFi when sending information.
If personal devices are being used, healthcare professionals and providers should ensure patients' information is not stored on devices and that those devices can be remotely cleaned if the need arises.
At My Virtual Physician, we are concerned with ensuring the security and privacy of our clients. You may read through our privacy policy and terms of use to get familiar with our platform.
As a telehealth platform, a visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor.
More so, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Before the Covid-19 pandemic, healthcare facilities were already met with a shortage of human and material resources to provide care. With four million women seeking prenatal care annually in the United States, the healthcare system without adequate resources is bound to experience huge gaps in the access and delivery of prenatal care.
One of these gaps includes delays in accessing healthcare. In many parts of the country, it can take a woman about 5 to 6 weeks or more to get into an OB doctor's office to start prenatal care. Ultimately, it becomes almost impossible for both women and healthcare providers to have the recommended number of office-based visits, that is 12 to 14 visits for low-risk pregnancies.
These delays in accessing prenatal increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. With the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic, worse outcomes have been predicted due to reduced availability and accessibility of healthcare across the country and globally.
Consequently, telemedicine as a complementary model of healthcare delivery is the life-saver. However, while telemedicine may be the way forward to bridge the gaps, can every patient benefit optimally from it?
Online doctors have been shown to play an important role in the delivery of care during this pandemic. However, there are pregnant women who for several reasons will not be able to access, utilize, and invariably benefit from telemedicine. These include women from low-income earning families, those living in rural areas, women with no or poor educational background, and women living with disabilities, amongst others.
Telemedicine requires the use of digital devices, wireless network services, and certain costs to be efficient. The following affect the use and positive outcome of telemedicine:
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Approximately 85% of Americans have access to a smartphone. However, disparities remain among low-income and low-education populations. According to a study, 26% of the more than 600,000 Medicare beneficiaries living in communities lacked access to a computer with high-speed internet or a smartphone with a wireless data plan.
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), 21 million Americans lack high-speed internet access, especially those living in rural areas. It doesn’t help that other studies state that the number is way higher, estimating it to be 42 million people. This goes to say that poor network service and wireless signal coverage can worsen health disparities.
While telemedicine may significantly save costs from traveling, lost work hours, babysitting, etc., it does not eliminate certain arising costs. Pregnant women from low-income households may be faced with financial difficulties in buying a smartphone or tablet as well as connection plans.
While some people may lack knowledge and skills on how to operate cellphone, telemedicine apps and software may pose more problems. Several apps from different healthcare facilities implies different instructions for booking and having virtual appointments. Pregnant women with poor technological literacy about ICT may not enjoy digital prenatal care as well as a positive patient and physician experience.
Telemedicine, particularly video-related visits can widen the gap that telemedicine aims to bridge in prenatal care. Healthcare professionals, community stakeholders, and the U.S. government should ensure that interventions are put in place to prevent worse outcomes.
Some clear-cut recommendations include:
At My Virtual Physician, we are concerned with bridging the gaps in healthcare delivery. A visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor.
More so, our software is easy to understand and use. We are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
