What is Telemedicine in a non-US Setting

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine is the use of electronic information and telecommunication technology to get the health care you need while practicing social distancing.  All you need is a phone or device with the internet to continue your medical care while protecting yourself and your healthcare provider from COVID-19.  Speak with your doctor to determine whether telemedicine is appropriate for your health needs.

Why telemedicine now?

To decrease your contact with healthcare facilities, other patients, and healthcare staff in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 and keep you and your family healthy.

 What are the benefits of telemedicine?

• Allows you to talk to your doctor live over the phone or video chat
• Allows you to send and receive messages from your doctor using chat messaging or email
• Allows for remote monitoring of patients
• Save on travel time/ transportation costs
• Reduced wait time for services
• Reduced number of visits to clinic

 When can you use telemedicine?

• To contact your healthcare provider about the management of your health generally or about management of an existing health condition during the COVID-19 outbreak.

What types of care can you get using telemedicine?

• Screening for COVID-19, testing recommendations, and guidance on isolation or quarantine
• General health care (i.e. wellness visits, blood pressure control, advice about certain non-emergency illnesses, like common rashes)
• Prescriptions for medication
• Nutrition counseling
• Mental health counseling

How do you connect with a healthcare provider to schedule a telemedicine visit?

• Call your healthcare provider to check if they are offering telemedicine visits and what technology you need to have a telemedicine visit.