Here are some instances when virtual care can be a suitable option:
- Non-Emergency Conditions: Virtual care is often appropriate for non-emergency medical conditions that do not require immediate in-person attention. Examples include cold and flu symptoms, minor injuries, allergies, skin rashes, urinary tract infections (UTIs), sinus infections, and mild respiratory issues.
- Routine Follow-ups: Virtual care can be convenient for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up appointments. It allows patients to have regular consultations with their healthcare provider without the need for an in-person visit.
- Chronic Disease Management: Individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or asthma, can benefit from virtual care for ongoing monitoring, medication adjustments, and lifestyle management. Virtual platforms enable patients to communicate with their healthcare team regularly and receive guidance on managing their conditions effectively.
Top virtual care companies
Below are some of the top virtual healthcare companies for primary care.
Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Purchase, New York, Teladoc Health is one of the largest and best known virtual healthcare companies in the world. The company offers virtual care for a range of medical conditions, including primary care, mental health, dermatology, and chronic condition management. Through its platform, patients can connect with board-certified doctors and licensed therapists via phone, video, or secure text messaging.
Founded in 2012 and based in San Francisco, California, Doctor on Demand offers virtual visits with licensed healthcare providers, including physicians, psychiatrists, and psychologists. Patients can access primary care services like general medical consultations, follow-up visits, and prescription refills from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
Founded in 2006 in Boston, Massachusetts, Amwell offers virtual primary care, urgent care, and telepsychiatry services to patients across the US. The company’s virtual care platform enables patients to connect with board-certified doctors, therapists, and medical specialists via video visits, phone calls or chat. Patients can access primary care services like wellness visits, sick visits, and prescription refills from the comfort of their own home.
