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

Audience: pediatric

Telemedicine and university health centers both provide healthcare options for children, but they serve different roles. Telemedicine allows families to consult healthcare providers remotely using video or phone calls, which can be convenient for minor illnesses, follow-ups, and general advice. University health centers offer in-person care with access to a wider range of services, including physical exams, vaccinations, and urgent care. Understanding what each option can and cannot do helps families choose the best care for their child's needs. Telemedicine is often best for quick consultations and non-emergency issues, while university health centers are suited for comprehensive care and emergencies. Knowing when to seek in-person care is important for safety and effective treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has trouble breathing or persistent wheezing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or very high temperature (above 39°C/102°F) — visit a health center promptly.
• Child is unresponsive, excessively drowsy, or confused — call emergency services or go to emergency department right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild respiratory symptoms like cough or cold
• Follow-up consultations for chronic conditions
• Medication questions and minor side effects
• Mental health counseling sessions
• General health advice and wellness check-ins

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or worsening breathing difficulties
• Physical injuries needing wound care or stitches
• Vaccinations and immunizations
• Diagnostic tests requiring blood draws or imaging
• Emergency situations such as seizures or unconsciousness

What Telemedicine Can Do for Pediatric Care

Telemedicine offers a way to connect with healthcare providers remotely. It is often used for:

This option is convenient and helps avoid travel, especially when quick advice is needed.

What University Health Centers Offer

University health centers provide in-person medical care, including:

They are equipped to handle a broad range of health needs that require physical examination or procedures.

Limitations of Telemedicine

While telemedicine is helpful, it cannot replace all in-person care. It may not be suitable for:

In these cases, visiting a health center or emergency department is important.

Choosing the Right Care Option

To decide between telemedicine and a university health center consider:

For non-urgent questions, telemedicine can be a good first step. For serious or unclear symptoms, in-person care is safer.

Safety and When to Seek Emergency Care

Always watch for red flags that require immediate in-person attention:

If these occur, go to the nearest emergency facility without delay.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet, private space for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and current medications ready to share.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and questions to discuss.
• Check if your device has a working camera and microphone.
• Have a caregiver present to assist younger children during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
• Schedule any recommended in-person visits or tests.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms and note any changes.
• Contact the provider if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise.
• Keep records of the telemedicine visit for future reference.

FAQs

Can telemedicine replace all visits to a university health center?

No. Telemedicine is useful for many situations but cannot replace visits that require physical exams, tests, or urgent care. Some health issues need hands-on evaluation.

Is telemedicine safe for young children?

Yes, telemedicine can be safe for young children when used appropriately. A caregiver should be present to help communicate and follow instructions. However, some conditions require in-person care.

What should I do if my child's symptoms worsen after a telemedicine visit?

If symptoms worsen or new serious signs appear, seek in-person care immediately. Telemedicine providers often advise when to escalate care.

Do I need special equipment for a telemedicine visit?

Typically, a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access, camera, and microphone is sufficient. Some visits may require additional tools, but these are usually communicated in advance.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Children’s Health and Telemedicine — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. When to Seek Emergency Medical Care for Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telemedicine: Benefits and Limitations — Mayo Clinic.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult a healthcare provider in person or via telemedicine for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your child's needs. In emergencies, seek immediate in-person care.