In Gilbert, AZ, telemedicine works well for minor illnesses such as colds, UTIs, rashes and medication questions. Urgent care is best for problems that need hands-on care the same day, such as stitches or an X-ray. The emergency room is for life-threatening symptoms like chest pain, trouble breathing or stroke signs. Your primary care provider can guide ongoing care.
When Is Telemedicine the Right Choice?
Telemedicine is a video visit with a healthcare provider. It is a good fit when your provider can assess you by talking and looking, without needing to touch or test you. Common examples:
• Colds, flu symptoms and sore throat
• Sinus symptoms and earaches
• Pink eye
• Urinary tract infection symptoms
• Rashes, insect bites and minor skin problems
• Mild stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea
• Medication questions and refills
• Follow-ups for chronic conditions, such as a high blood sugar reading
When Should You Go to Urgent Care?
Urgent care centers handle problems that need same-day, in-person care but are not life-threatening:
• Cuts that may need stitches
• Possible sprains or simple fractures that need an X-ray
• Minor burns
• Symptoms that need a quick test, such as a strep or COVID-19 test
• Vomiting or diarrhea with mild dehydration
When Should You Go to the Emergency Room?
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for:
• Chest pain or pressure
• Trouble breathing
• Signs of a stroke: face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech
• Severe bleeding that will not stop
• Sudden severe headache or confusion
• Serious injuries, such as a head injury or a broken bone through the skin
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm (you can also call or text 988)
When in doubt about an emergency, call 911.
How Do Costs Compare?
In general, telemedicine visits cost the least, urgent care costs more, and emergency room visits cost the most. Exact costs depend on your insurance plan, so check your benefits. Choosing the right level of care can save money and time while keeping you safe.
What Are the Benefits of Telemedicine?
• No driving or waiting room when you feel unwell
• Care from a provider who can review your medical records
• Prescriptions sent to your pharmacy when needed
• Easy follow-up for ongoing conditions
What If Telemedicine Is Not Enough?
If your provider decides you need an exam, a test or emergency care, they will tell you where to go next. Telemedicine is a starting point, not a replacement for in-person care when it is needed.
How Should Older Adults Decide Where to Go?
Older adults can have less typical symptoms. For example, an infection may cause confusion rather than fever, and a heart attack may cause fatigue or shortness of breath instead of chest pain. If an older adult has sudden confusion, weakness, a fall with a head injury or trouble breathing, go to the ER or call 911. For minor issues and medication questions, telemedicine can save a tiring trip.
When Should You Call Your Primary Care Provider First?
Call your primary care office when you are unsure, have a chronic condition that is acting up, need a prescription adjusted or want a follow-up after an urgent care or ER visit. Your provider knows your history and can tell you whether a video visit, an office visit or urgent care makes the most sense.
What Should You Have Ready Before a Telemedicine Visit?
1. A charged device with a camera and microphone.
2. Your list of medications and allergies.
3. Your temperature, blood pressure or blood sugar if you can check them.
4. Your pharmacy name and location.
5. A well-lit space so your provider can see rashes or swelling clearly.
Can Telemedicine Help Prevent Unnecessary ER Visits?
Yes. Many ER visits are for problems that could be handled sooner and more comfortably with a video visit or a call to your primary care office. Catching a urinary tract infection, a flare of a chronic condition or a medication side effect early can stop it from getting worse. For people with ongoing conditions, regular telemedicine check-ins and chronic care management provide a steady line to their care team between office visits. That said, never delay emergency care for serious symptoms. Telemedicine is meant to make everyday care easier, not to replace emergency services.
Frequently Asked Questions About When to Use Telemedicine in Gilbert, AZ and Chandler, AZ
What can telemedicine treat?
Telemedicine can treat many minor illnesses, including colds, flu symptoms, sinus infections, pink eye, UTIs, rashes and mild stomach problems, as well as follow-ups and medication questions.
Can I get antibiotics through telemedicine?
Yes, when your provider confirms a bacterial infection is likely, such as many UTIs. Antibiotics are not used for viral illnesses like colds.
When should I choose urgent care over telemedicine?
Choose urgent care when you likely need hands-on care or a test, such as stitches, an X-ray or a rapid strep test.
What symptoms mean I should go to the ER?
Chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke signs, severe bleeding, sudden severe headache, confusion or serious injuries need emergency care. Call 911.
Is telemedicine cheaper than urgent care?
Usually, yes. Telemedicine visits generally cost less than urgent care, and both cost much less than the ER. Your exact cost depends on your insurance.
Does insurance cover telemedicine?
Many plans, including Medicare, cover telehealth visits. Contact the office before your visit to confirm coverage.
Can telemedicine replace my primary care provider?
Telemedicine works best as part of ongoing primary care, not a replacement. Your primary care provider knows your history and can follow up after a video visit.
Can I use telemedicine for a chronic condition flare-up?
Often, yes. Sudden changes such as a high blood sugar reading can start with a video visit, and your provider will decide if you need to be seen in person.
What do I need for a telemedicine visit?
A smartphone, tablet or computer with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, a quiet space and your medication list.
Can telemedicine be used for mental health?
Yes. Anxiety, depression, ADHD and other mental health conditions can be treated through online psychiatry.
What if my telemedicine provider says I need to go in person?
Follow their advice. They will tell you whether to book an office visit, go to urgent care or go to the ER, based on your symptoms.
Can older adults use telemedicine easily?
Yes. A family member or caregiver can help set up the video call, and many visits work well on a smartphone or tablet.
Can telemedicine handle a fever?
Often, yes, for adults with mild fever and cold or flu symptoms. Seek in-person or emergency care for a very high fever, a stiff neck, confusion or trouble breathing.
Should I go to the ER for a panic attack?
If you have chest pain or trouble breathing and are not sure whether it is a panic attack or a heart problem, go to the ER or call 911. For recurring panic attacks, anxiety treatment can help prevent them.