Telehealth is real medicine: what a virtual doctor can and cannot do
There are still misconceptions about telemedicine. Here is what a board-certified physician can genuinely accomplish remotely, and where in-person care is still needed.
The misconception: “you cannot really diagnose anything virtually”
This is one of the most common things new patients say, and it is worth addressing directly. A medical diagnosis is based primarily on history and symptoms. Studies show that in primary care, 70 to 80% of diagnoses are made from the patient’s history alone, before any physical exam or test is ordered.
When your physician asks when your symptoms started, what they feel like, what makes them better or worse, what medications you take and what other conditions you have — that is exactly what would happen in an office. The absence of a stethoscope does not change that diagnostic process for most common conditions.
What can be done virtually
Li Health is a focused practice, not a primary care clinic. We do not manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or thyroid disease on an ongoing basis — though we can refill a medication you already take, or bridge you when you are temporarily without access to your regular physician. Keep a primary care physician for long-term management.
When you will be told to go in person
Patient safety comes before a booking. Your physician will always be honest if a virtual visit is not the right setting. You need in-person evaluation for:
“We would rather earn your trust by being honest about the limits than overpromise what a virtual visit can do.”
Not sure if a virtual visit can help?
Start a $39 quick care visit and describe your situation. If it turns out to be beyond the scope of virtual care, you will be told immediately — and you choose whether to be refunded in full or move to a video visit.
This article is general health information, not medical advice for your situation, and does not create a physician-patient relationship. If you are unwell, speak with a physician.
