Explain what a “virtual house call” is.?

Question

Explain what a “virtual house call” is. How does this method compare with the traditional doctor's office visit in terms of patient-doctor relationship? How does it compare financially? What kind of interaction and information access does it provide to patients? Is it something that interests you as a patient? If you were a caregiver, would it be beneficial to you?

Answer 1

My doctor calls it a "webvisit".  Basically you give the doctor all the information that you would give a nurse, and he determines if he can diagnose and treat you without seeing you in person.  Usually doctors will only do this with existing patients that they have a history with.  

You used to be able to call your doctor and say "I'm sick, I have blah blah blah" and they would call in a prescription to your local pharmacist....for free.  Now they call it "virtual house calls" and charge you 30 bucks....

For easy stuff it can save time off work and is convenient.  It should never replace seeking true medical advice for serious ailments.