Lakeside Medicine Centre Pharmacy has recently partnered with Viva Care to offer free telehealth services to residents of BC. This will allow community members to speak to a doctor for a variety of needs from the comfort of their home.

In recent years, telehealth appointments have emerged as a convenient and accessible option for receiving medical care. However, like any new technology, misconceptions and myths can often cloud the public's perception of its effectiveness. 

In this blog post, we will debunk three common myths surrounding telehealth appointments, so you can feel confident accessing Viva Care appointments if and when you need them.

Myth 1: Telehealth Requires Knowledge of Technology

One prevailing misconception about telehealth appointments is that they require a strong understanding of technology. In reality, whether you barely know how to unlock your smartphone or barely know how to function without it, telehealth platforms are designed to be user-friendly and accessible for people of all technological backgrounds.

Most telehealth appointments only require a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. If you can make a video call or send an email, you likely have the technical skills needed for a telehealth appointment. 

Viva Care also offers the option to have your appointment over a phone call, so even if you’re not comfortable with a video call, there is still an option for you.

Telehealth is not about excluding those who are less tech-savvy; it's about making healthcare more inclusive and convenient for everyone.

Myth 2: Virtual Appointments Are Only for Prescription Refills

Another common myth about telehealth is that it is limited to routine tasks like prescription refills. While virtual appointments are indeed convenient for medication management, they go far beyond simple refills. Telehealth platforms allow patients to consult with healthcare professionals for a wide range of concerns, just as they would during an in-person visit.

Using Viva Care, you can access a range of services including general health checkups, reviewing lab results, mental health counselling and more.

Myth 3: Doctors Can't Properly Assess Issues Over a Call

One of the most persistent myths surrounding telehealth is the belief that doctors cannot adequately assess patients' health issues over a virtual call. While it's true that some physical examinations may be challenging to conduct remotely, advancements in technology and the development of remote monitoring tools have greatly enhanced doctors' ability to assess patients effectively.

Telehealth appointments are particularly well-suited for follow-up visits, routine check-ups, mental health consultations, and discussions about chronic conditions. In many cases, doctors can gather valuable information through careful questioning, observation, and by reviewing patients' medical histories and test results. Additionally, patients can share images and videos of symptoms during the virtual appointment, providing visual cues that aid in diagnosis.

It's important to recognize that telehealth is not a replacement for all in-person visits, especially those requiring hands-on examinations or specific procedures. However, for many healthcare needs, virtual appointments offer a convenient and efficient alternative.

Want to see for yourself?

Telehealth platforms are convenient, easy-to-use and effective. See for yourself by booking an appointment though Viva Care.

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