Why Telehealth Might be the Smartest Health Choice You Make This Year

Discover how telehealth can save you time, money, and stress. Learn when to use virtual care, what conditions it covers, and why it’s a smart choice for routine and mental health needs.

For many of us, going with our parents to a physical bank branch was part of our normal childhood routine.  We tried to wait patiently in line with the knowledge that the bank would reward us with a lollipop.   

Our kids likely won’t have the same memories, as the vast majority of Americans now utilize online banking.  However, for most of us, another childhood routine hasn’t gone away … sitting and waiting in the doctor’s office for a consultation that often only lasts a few minutes … even though the technology is available to make routine doctor appointments more convenient. 

Telehealth has been around in various forms for decades and experienced a surge during COVID, yet research shows that only about half of Americans use telehealth. 

Why might telehealth be the smartest health choice you make this year?  Time and money. 

When to Use Telehealth

 
If you’ve never used telehealth, where to begin?   

Dr. Ian Day, a practicing physician who serves as Chief Medical Office at Medi-Share, recommends members consider telehealth for the following medical issues: 

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Skin rashes (including poison ivy, acne, eczema, psoriasis, minor burns) or infections 

                              • Sinus infection 

                              • Urinary tract infection 

                              • Sore throat (including strep throat concerns) 

                              • Cough and/or congestion 

                              • Colds, influenza, COVID-19 (mild to moderate severity only) 

                              • Earache/each infection 

                              • Pinkeye

                              • Prescription refills 

                              • Vaginal yeast infection 

                              • Fever 

                                
                                

Dr. Day also recommends using telehealth for medication management related to asthma, COPD and diabetes, when you and the doctor are working together to make small adjustments. 

Save Money (quite a bit, actually)

How much did you pay the last time you visited the doctor for a routine issue? 

While prices vary, a federal study found that the average cost of a pediatric visit is $169, while the average cost of a primary care visit is $186.   

The cost of using Medi-Share’s DialCare telehealth system?  A flat $25 provider fee per visit to connect with a licensed physician 24/7/365 by telephone or video chat. 

Telehealth can also reduce healthcare costs by eliminating the need for travel, including fuel, parking fees and possible lost wages. 

• Save Time 

•  

Taking time off work or arranging childcare can be inconvenient.  Medi-Share’s DialCare allows members to schedule appointments at a time that is convenient, including evenings and weekends. 

And let’s face it, our kids rarely get sick during regular business hours.  Telehealth is a great option for those midnight fevers or earaches.   

Avoid Germs

 
Besides saving time and money, using Medi-Share’s DialCare for routine medical issues saves you that uncomfortable wait in a germy waiting room, wondering what else your kids might be picking up from all the sneezing and sniffling around you.   

Privacy for Mental Health Concerns

The lingering stigma surrounding mental health issues can make some people embarrassed about seeking help.  They may fear being seen walking into a psychiatrist’s office, worried they are being judged and labeled by others.   

Medi-Share’s DialCare offers a secure, private method of connecting with mental health counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists.  This is especially convenient for conditions like depression and anxiety when the doctor needs to monitor symptoms and adjust prescriptions.   

Medi-Share members can access DialCare’s telebehavorial health services for a flat $40 provider fee per session. 

When Not to Use Telehealth

While DialCare helps members save time and money on routine medical issues, Dr. Day warns that telehealth is not appropriate in all situations, including: 

• • • • • Chest pain or stroke symptoms 

        • Difficulty breathing or speaking 

        • Sudden dizziness, fainting, or weakness 

        • Deep wounds, burns, or bleeding that won’t stop 

        • Poisoning or choking 

        • Suicidal or homicidal thoughts (i.e., psychiatric emergencies) 

        • Severe abdominal pain 

        • Trauma or fractures 

        • Conditions requiring physical exams or procedures 

        • Rapidly worsening symptoms 

        • Complex conditions 

        • Children under 3 with fever

It’s easier than you might think to get started with Telehealth. Here's an explanation of how Medi-Share's DialCare telehealth works and easy instructions for scheduling your first “visit.”