Can telemedicine treat COVID-19?

Audience: adult

Telemedicine can help manage many aspects of COVID-19, especially for mild to moderate symptoms. Through virtual visits, healthcare providers can assess your condition, offer advice on symptom relief, and guide you on when to seek in-person care. Telemedicine reduces the risk of spreading the virus by allowing you to stay home while receiving medical support. However, it cannot replace emergency care for severe symptoms or perform physical tests like oxygen level measurements. If you experience serious warning signs, you should seek immediate medical attention. Telemedicine is a useful tool for education, monitoring, and follow-up but works best when combined with access to in-person care if needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — call emergency services immediately
• Chest pain or pressure — seek urgent medical care
• Confusion, inability to stay awake, or bluish lips/face — get emergency help right away

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms
• Advice on symptom management and home care
• Guidance on testing and isolation protocols
• Monitoring symptom progression
• Answering questions about vaccines and medications

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency treatment for severe symptoms
• Physical examination and vital sign measurement
• Oxygen therapy or hospitalization
• Diagnostic testing like blood tests or imaging

What telemedicine can do for COVID-19

Telemedicine allows you to consult healthcare providers remotely using video, phone, or apps. For COVID-19, it can help by:

This helps reduce exposure to others and eases the burden on healthcare facilities.

When telemedicine is not enough

Telemedicine cannot replace hands-on medical care needed for severe COVID-19 symptoms. It cannot:

If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever, you need urgent in-person care.

Preparing for your telemedicine visit

Before your virtual appointment:

Being prepared helps your provider give the best advice.

After your telemedicine visit

Follow your provider's instructions carefully. Common steps include:

If new or severe symptoms develop, seek immediate care.

Red flags requiring urgent care

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience:

These signs may indicate severe illness needing prompt treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet and private space for your tele-visit
• Ensure stable internet connection or phone signal
• Have your identification and health insurance information ready if applicable
• Prepare a list of your symptoms and their duration
• Gather a list of current medications and supplements
• Have a thermometer or pulse oximeter available if possible
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on symptom management
• Rest and stay well hydrated
• Monitor your symptoms regularly and note any changes
• Isolate yourself according to public health guidelines
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine visits if symptoms persist or worsen
• Seek immediate in-person care if red flag symptoms develop

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose COVID-19?

Telemedicine providers can evaluate your symptoms and recommend testing but cannot perform diagnostic tests themselves. They can guide you on where and how to get tested.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for COVID-19 care?

Yes, telemedicine helps reduce exposure to others by allowing you to stay home while receiving medical advice. It is a safe way to get care for mild to moderate symptoms.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse during telemedicine care?

If your symptoms worsen or you develop emergency warning signs like difficulty breathing or chest pain, seek immediate in-person medical care or call emergency services.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe medications for COVID-19?

Depending on local regulations and clinical judgment, telemedicine providers may prescribe medications for symptom relief or approved COVID-19 treatments. Always follow their guidance carefully.

How often should I have telemedicine follow-ups for COVID-19?

The frequency depends on your symptoms and risk factors. Your provider will advise you on when to schedule follow-ups to monitor your condition safely.

Sources

1. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. COVID-19: What to Do If You Are Sick — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — National Library of Medicine.
4. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Advice for the Public — World Health Organization (WHO).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or emergency warning signs, seek immediate medical attention.