Telemedicine vs House Calls: When to Choose One vs the Other

Audience: adult

Telemedicine and house calls are two ways to get medical care without visiting a clinic or hospital. Telemedicine uses technology like video calls or phone calls to connect you with healthcare providers remotely. House calls mean a healthcare professional visits you at home. Each has its own benefits and limits. Telemedicine is often quick and convenient for many health questions or follow-ups. House calls may be better when physical exams or treatments are needed in person. Knowing when to use telemedicine or request a house call can help you get the right care safely and comfortably. This guide explains the differences, when each option fits best, and what to watch for that needs urgent in-person care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing — call emergency services immediately.
• High fever with confusion, seizures, or inability to stay awake — seek urgent in-person care.
• Uncontrolled bleeding or severe injury — go to the nearest emergency department without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild respiratory infections like colds or flu symptoms.
• Medication refills and routine follow-ups.
• Mental health counseling and support.
• Chronic disease management advice.
• Skin rashes or minor injuries that can be visually assessed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe chest pain or breathing difficulty needing emergency care.
• Physical exams requiring hands-on assessment or procedures.
• Severe injuries or uncontrolled bleeding.
• Symptoms indicating stroke or sudden neurological changes.
• Complex diagnostic testing that requires in-person visits.

What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine lets you talk with healthcare providers using phones, computers, or other devices. It often involves video calls, phone calls, or messaging. It is useful for many health issues like minor illnesses, medication questions, or mental health support. Telemedicine saves travel time and can be done from home or work.

What are House Calls?

House calls happen when a healthcare provider visits you in your home. This allows for a hands-on exam and treatments that need direct contact. House calls are helpful for people who have difficulty traveling, need physical exams, or require certain procedures at home.

When to Choose Telemedicine

Telemedicine is often a good choice when:

It is fast and convenient but may not replace a full physical exam.

When to Choose a House Call

A house call may be better when:

House calls provide personal attention but may take longer to arrange.

Red Flags That Need Immediate In-Person Care

Seek emergency care or call emergency services if you experience:

These signs require urgent evaluation beyond telemedicine or house calls.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your telemedicine appointment:

After Your Telemedicine or House Call Visit

After your visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit, and private space for your visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Have a list of your current medications and medical history ready.
• Write down your symptoms and any questions you want to ask.
• Test the telemedicine platform or app before your appointment time.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any treatment or medication instructions given by your provider.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.
• Monitor your symptoms and seek in-person care if they worsen or new symptoms appear.
• Keep a record of your visit and any advice provided.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns after the visit.

FAQs

Can telemedicine replace all in-person doctor visits?

Telemedicine is helpful for many health concerns but cannot replace all in-person visits. Some conditions need physical exams, tests, or treatments that require you to see a healthcare provider face-to-face.

Are house calls available everywhere?

House calls are less common than clinic visits or telemedicine and availability varies by location and healthcare system. They are often reserved for people who cannot easily travel or need special care at home.

What if my symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen or you develop new concerning signs, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine providers can advise when urgent care is needed, but you should not delay emergency treatment.

Is telemedicine safe and private?

Telemedicine platforms use secure technology to protect your privacy. Make sure you use trusted services and have your visit in a private space to keep your information safe.

Can I get prescriptions through telemedicine?

Yes, many providers can prescribe medications during a telemedicine visit when appropriate. However, some medications may require an in-person exam or have restrictions depending on local regulations.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telemedicine: Overview and Applications — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. House Calls: Bringing Care to Your Home — Mayo Clinic.
4. When to Seek Emergency Care — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.
5. Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit — FamilyDoctor.org, American Academy of Family Physicians.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Telemedicine may not be appropriate for all health issues, and urgent or emergency conditions require immediate in-person care.