Asynchronous Care (E-visit) vs Live Video Telemedicine: When to Choose One vs the Other

Audience: adult

Telemedicine offers two common ways to connect with healthcare providers: asynchronous care (also called e-visits) and live video visits. Asynchronous care lets you send messages, photos, or health information anytime, and a provider replies later. Live video visits happen in real time with a healthcare provider through video chat. Each has benefits depending on your health needs. Asynchronous care is often good for simple questions, follow-ups, or minor issues that don't need immediate attention. Live video visits are better when you want a face-to-face conversation, need a more detailed exam, or have symptoms that require quick evaluation. Understanding when to choose each can help you get timely care that fits your situation. Always seek urgent in-person care if you have serious or emergency symptoms.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, or signs of stroke (e.g., weakness, slurred speech) — call emergency services right away.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or worsening symptoms despite treatment — contact a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Minor illnesses like colds, mild infections, or allergies.
• Medication questions and prescription refills.
• Follow-up on test results or ongoing conditions.
• Non-urgent health questions and advice.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Medical emergencies or life-threatening symptoms.
• Conditions requiring physical exams, tests, or procedures.
• Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
• Mental health crises needing immediate intervention.

What is Asynchronous Care (E-visit)?

Asynchronous care means you send your health questions or updates through a secure online platform. You don’t need to be online at the same time as your provider. They review your information and respond when available. This method is convenient for non-urgent issues, medication questions, or follow-ups that don’t require a physical exam.

What is Live Video Telemedicine?

Live video telemedicine connects you with a healthcare provider in real time using video chat. It allows for a more interactive visit, including visual exams and immediate feedback. This option is useful when you need more detailed evaluation or want to discuss your symptoms directly with a provider.

When to Choose Asynchronous Care

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When to Choose Live Video Telemedicine

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Limitations of Each Method

Asynchronous care cannot replace urgent or emergency care and may delay diagnosis if symptoms worsen. Live video visits require a stable internet connection and may not allow hands-on exams. Neither replaces in-person visits when physical exams, tests, or procedures are needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for your visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) has a working camera and microphone.
• Have your medical history, current medications, and any recent test results ready.
• Write down your symptoms, questions, and concerns before the visit.
• Test your internet connection and the telemedicine platform ahead of time.
• Have a family member or friend available to assist if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s instructions carefully, including medication and self-care advice.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new concerns.
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of your telemedicine visit for future reference.

FAQs

Can I use asynchronous care for urgent health problems?

Asynchronous care is not suitable for urgent or emergency issues because it does not provide immediate responses. For urgent symptoms like chest pain or severe breathing problems, seek emergency care right away.

Do I need special equipment for live video visits?

You typically need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer, and a stable internet connection to participate in live video visits.

Will my telemedicine visit be private and secure?

Reputable telemedicine services use secure platforms to protect your privacy and health information. Always use official healthcare portals and avoid public Wi-Fi when possible.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits?

Telemedicine is helpful for many issues but cannot replace in-person care when physical exams, tests, or procedures are necessary. Your provider will guide you if an in-person visit is needed.

How soon can I expect a response in asynchronous care?

Response times vary but often occur within 24 to 48 hours. If your symptoms worsen or you need immediate help, seek live or in-person care.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Telemedicine: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Using Telehealth to Expand Access to Essential Health Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telemedicine: Benefits and Limitations — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have serious, worsening, or emergency symptoms, seek immediate in-person evaluation.