Telemedicine vs University Health Centers: What Each Option Does & Doesn’t Do

Audience: adult

Telemedicine and university health centers both provide important healthcare services but differ in how they operate and what they offer. Telemedicine allows you to consult healthcare providers remotely using technology like video calls, which is convenient for many common health concerns. University health centers offer in-person care, often with a wide range of services including physical exams, lab tests, and specialist referrals. Telemedicine is great for quick advice, follow-ups, and managing ongoing conditions without travel. However, some situations require hands-on exams or urgent care that university health centers can provide. Understanding what each option can and cannot do helps you choose the best care for your needs.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing — seek emergency in-person care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or worsening symptoms — contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• Severe injury or bleeding that cannot be controlled — go to an emergency facility without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Common colds, flu, and minor infections
• Chronic disease management follow-ups
• Mental health counseling and support
• Medication reviews and health advice
• Non-urgent health questions and education

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical exams and procedures
• Severe or emergency symptoms
• Diagnostic testing requiring labs or imaging
• In-person vaccinations or wound care
• Specialist or hospital referrals requiring physical presence

What Telemedicine Can Do

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Telemedicine uses video, phone, or messaging to connect you with healthcare providers without needing to travel.

What University Health Centers Can Do

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University health centers are physical locations where you can receive hands-on medical care.

Limitations of Telemedicine

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In some cases, telemedicine can only provide preliminary advice and will recommend in-person care.

When to Choose University Health Centers

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University health centers are best for comprehensive, in-person medical needs.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

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Good preparation helps make your telemedicine visit effective.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

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Monitoring your health after the visit is important for good outcomes.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private location with good internet access.
• Have your medical history and medication list ready.
• Write down your symptoms and any questions you want to ask.
• Test your device’s camera, microphone, and internet connection.
• Ensure you know how to use the telemedicine platform or app.

After your tele-visit

• Follow all care instructions and medication guidelines provided.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Seek immediate in-person care if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Keep a record of your telemedicine visit and any advice given.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions after the visit.

FAQs

Can telemedicine replace all in-person doctor visits?

Telemedicine is useful for many health concerns but cannot replace all in-person visits. Physical exams, certain tests, and emergency care require you to see a healthcare provider face-to-face.

Is telemedicine safe and private?

Telemedicine platforms typically use secure technology to protect your privacy. However, ensure you use a private space and trusted service to keep your information safe.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen or you develop new concerning signs, seek in-person care promptly, such as visiting a university health center or emergency facility.

Do I need special equipment for telemedicine?

Usually, a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone is enough. A stable internet connection helps ensure a smooth visit.

Can telemedicine provide prescriptions?

Many telemedicine providers can prescribe medications when appropriate, but some prescriptions may require an in-person evaluation.

Sources

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

This information about telemedicine and university health centers is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. Always seek immediate medical attention for emergencies or serious health concerns.