Telehealth offers convenient care at home
Virtual health care options have become much more widespread in the wake of the COVID pandemic. Most Illinois residents can now access telehealth services from their home or workplace. A patient can use an app on their phone to call, message or video chat with a health care provider who can assess their symptoms and give advice.
What is telehealth?
Telehealth (or telemedicine) is a method of receiving medical care using common communication technology to deliver advanced medical, educational and research information to patients and practitioners. Telehealth activities can be conducted conveniently and cost-effectively using a computer, tablet or smartphone with internet connectivity.
How to get started
There are numerous options for virtual care, and it is as simple and secure as a private video chat.
- Use the phone or video chat to have a live conversation with your health care professional.
- Use a secure file exchange program to send and receive information from your health care provider.
- Some specialties offer a device to collect vital signs or other data to keep you and your health care team updated on your condition.
What are the benefits of telehealth?
Telehealth applications offer a wide range of benefits. These include:
- Easy access to your health care provider, regardless of distance or location
- Less time away from work, need for child care and reduced travel time
- Reduced medical costs
- A shortened waiting period for an appointment
- Reduced visits to the hospital, saving time and cost
- Flexibility to communicate from home, work or in a private setting the patient chooses
- Avoids in-person safety protocols of a clinic or hospital visit
What health needs can be managed with telehealth?
A variety of medical care is available via telehealth. SIU Medicine provides appointments for:
- General health care and wellness visits
- Follow-up appointments
- Medication management
- Dermatology (skincare)
- Nutrition counseling
- Mental health counseling
- Urgent care conditions, such as sinusitis, rashes, pink eye, abdominal or back pain, urinary tract infections, common rashes, seasonal allergies, diarrhea, vomiting, etc.
If you would like to try telehealth, talk to your physician or provider for confirmation.
To learn more about your virtual care options, contact SIU Medicine at 217-545-8000 or 800-342-5748, or request an appointment online. SIU Medicine providers are also available to address your concerns or challenges in person.
Laura Kessel
Office of Telehealth Services
