Finding the Right Balance: Online vs.Face-to-Face Doctor Appointments in the Telemedicine Era.

Telemedicine allows patients to see doctors from home using video calls, phone calls, or secure messages. It's useful for diagnosing new problems, managing long-term conditions, and getting follow-up care.

Telemedicine is convenient and offers more doctor choices, especially for people in remote areas or with busy schedules. It became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now offered by many providers, including Amazon.

Before a telemedicine visit, ensure your technology works, find a private location, and avoid distractions like driving or eating. This helps both you and the doctor focus on the appointment.

Telemedicine isn't suitable for all situations, as it requires good internet and sometimes a physical exam is necessary. There might also be limitations on seeing doctors outside your state, which can affect follow-up care.

The best balance between telemedicine and in-person visits depends on the patient's needs and comfort level. Starting with an in-person visit is recommended to build a relationship with the doctor, followed by telemedicine follow-ups.