As much as we hate to admit it, COVID is still a real problem in our communities and, whether our concern is for ourselves or others, it’s still in our best interest to limit our in-person interactions.

With that premise, I wanted to take a couple minutes today to talk about a technology that’s been out there for years but you probably haven’t used: virtual doctor visits.

Now, disclaimer time, I don’t want anyone to take chances with their health. If you’re having serious medical issues, please call 911, go to the ER, or talk to your doctor as you always have.

If, though, you want to do a COVID test at home, there’s an option for that. If you’re experiencing something more minor going on, a virtual doctor visit might be a great option. Let’s talk about both scenarios.

COVID testing at home:

If you’re interested in a COVID test but don’t want to leave your house, there are options for that. Vault Health has a COVID saliva test that you can order and take with video assistance for $119. You simply log onto the website,  create an account, and they’ll walk you through the testing.

Virtual doctor visits:

There are many options for virtual care. Sanford and Essentia both have virtual doctor visits as an option.

• Sanford patients can schedule an e-visit via My Sanford Chart or mobile app.

• Essentia patients can schedule an e-visit or the My Health/My Chart mobile app.

But if you’re reading this and aren’t in their coverage area or if you’re interested in another option, I can also recommend Amwell . I used this app when I knew I had an ear infection. It’s really easy to use, very cost-effective and covers a broad range of treatable conditions. From acne and allergy treatment to bronchitis, or flu symptoms, or for mental health counseling, there are virtual options. Everything Amwell treats is listed here.

Regardless of the provider you choose, if you have a couple tools at your disposal, you’ll help your doctor along. Think about an in-person visit. The nurse checks your weight, your temperature, and your blood pressure. If you have a scale at home, a thermometer, and a blood pressure cuff you’re going to be able to give your doctor important information they need. But if you don’t have those things, that doesn’t mean you can’t still give it a try.

Again, we’re all ready for COVID to be over and we’re ready to get back to our normal lives. The more responsible we are with our in-person interaction, the sooner that’ll be. So if you’ve never tried a virtual doctor visit, maybe it’s time!

Be well.

Brian Crommett
CEO
702 Communications