Teleconsultation is revolutionising the way we access medical care, and has established itself as a modern and practical solution. Being able to consult a doctor on video, from the comfort of your own home, avoiding the need to travel and waiting rooms, is obviously a real plus. However, it’s important to understand that teleconsultation isn’t for everyone, or for every situation. We’ll take a look at what’s involved in this article.
Vamos!
Teleconsultation
Teleconsultation is particularly suitable for light to moderate medical consultations that do not require an in-depth physical examination.
- Reading additional tests
- signs of urinary infection
- Psychological follow-up after an initial face-to-face consultation
- Mild digestive signs.
It can also be adapted to monitor certain chronic medical conditions. For example, patients suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure or thyroid disorders can occasionally and exceptionally benefit from consultations with their doctor via video calls to discuss their state of health, adjust medication and assess the results of laboratory tests. However, regular face-to-face consultations (2x a year in the case of diabetes) are necessary to check the patient’s vitals and the effectiveness of the treatment.
However, it is important to recognise that teleconsultation has its limitations and that in some cases a face-to-face consultation is necessary.
Emergencies
- Medical emergencies such as stroke, heart attack, airway obstruction or serious injury
- Severe symptoms or respiratory distress such as severe breathing difficulty, wheezing, severe chest pain.
- Severe mental confusion, signs of brain damage
- Abundant bleeding
- Suicidal urges
In these cases, it is essential to contact the emergency services on 112 in Portugal or go to the nearest hospital.
At the practice:
- Fever
- Respiratory symptoms such as a slight cough, sore throat, runny nose or other respiratory symptoms without respiratory distress
- Dermatological problems.
- Need for physical examinations or specific tests such as lung sounds or abdominal palpation.
- Need for medical interventions or procedures such as stitches, gynaecological examination, or tissue sampling for biopsy.
- Any other situation in which the doctor considers that a face-to-face consultation is necessary.
It is also important to note that teleconsultation may not be suitable for all patients. Some people, such as the elderly, people with difficulties accessing technology or people with mental health problems requiring a more in-depth assessment, may benefit more from a face-to-face consultation.
Wondering whether your situation is suitable for a teleconsultation?
Give as many details as possible when you book your appointment so that you can be given as much guidance as possible.
If, despite this, during the teleconsultation the doctor determines that a face-to-face consultation is necessary, this means that it is the best option for looking after your health and well-being.
Beijinhos and take care of yourself
Source: Medadom
This information is not a substitute for medical advice. You must seek the advice of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health condition.
