In-Person or Virtual Care?

It seems like many people are talking about virtual care. After all, not having to make a trip across town to the doctor is a major convenience. Especially when you don’t feel well. But what is virtual care, exactly? And when should you use it instead of in-person care? Here’s a look at the basics.

What Is Virtual Care?

Virtual care at Baptist Health is any care that is provided using technology instead of an in-person visit. This can include a simple email exchange with your doctor, refilling a prescription on your smartphone, or a full video visit using our MyHealth app.

During a video visit, you can see and hear your doctor, just as you would in the office. The big difference is that you can do it from anywhere using your computer, tablet, or smartphone. If you have a nonurgent health condition, you can schedule an appointment with a Baptist Health provider through video care. During your virtual visit, the provider can diagnose, treat, and request medications.

Baptist Health’s newest feature, eVisits, makes it easy to get treatment for nonurgent health conditions from the comfort of your own home. Simply log in to MyChart and fill out a symptom-focused questionnaire. Your doctor will then provide you with a customized treatment plan and request any needed prescriptions from the pharmacy of your choice. eVisits are a convenient way to get the care you need without having to leave your house or take time off work.

When Should I Use Virtual Care?

If virtual care sounds great, you might be asking yourself, “When should I use it?” Virtual care works best for minor, non-urgent health concerns that don’t require an in-person exam.

Here are a few examples of when to use virtual care:

• Cough
• Cold
• Urinary tract infection
• Sinus problems
• Heartburn
• Earache
• Rash
• Insect bites
• Minor burns
• Nausea

While this is not a comprehensive list, it may give you a general feel for the conditions best suited for virtual care. You can also consult with a medical professional or request a prescription refill through our virtual care service.

Virtual care is not meant to treat emergencies, major injuries, or other urgent health conditions. In an emergency, please seek immediate medical attention in person at an emergency room.

What Prescriptions Are Eligible for Virtual Care?

Virtual care visits with Baptist Health are a convenient way to get the prescriptions you need without having to go to the doctor’s office. You can usually receive a prescription for antibiotics, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other similar medications.

The process is simple—just schedule a virtual visit with one of our providers or request a prescription refill through your MyChart account, and we will send the prescription to your pharmacy.

It doesn’t get much faster or easier than that.

Controlled substances, such as certain anxiety medications, are not usually prescribed through a virtual visit. However, we can help you get the care you need for those conditions. If your doctor believes that you need a controlled substance, they will likely refer you to an in-person visit.

Learn More About Virtual Care at Baptist Health

Baptist Health is here to support your health every step of the way. Learn more about virtual care services offered at Baptist Health or sign up and get started in one easy step.