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Is a Telehealth Visit Right for You? What to Expect
Telehealth appointments exploded during the pandemic, and many people discovered they prefer virtual visits for certain types of care. You can see your doctor from home, skip the commute, and avoid waiting rooms.
But telehealth isn’t the right choice for every medical situation. At Maryland Medical First P.A. in Parkville, Maryland, Narender Bharaj, MD, and our team offer both in-person and virtual appointments so you can choose what works best for your needs.
Here’s what happens during a telehealth visit and when virtual care makes the most sense.
What happens during a telehealth appointment
A telehealth visit works like a regular office appointment, just via video call instead of in person. You log in to a secure platform at your scheduled time and connect with Dr. Bharaj via your phone, tablet, or computer.
The appointment starts the same way an in-person visit would. Dr. Bharaj asks about your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns. You can show him rashes, injuries, or other visible problems through the camera. He can observe how you move, whether you’re in obvious discomfort, and other visual cues that help with diagnosis.
During the visit, Dr. Bharaj can review your medical records, discuss test results, adjust medications, and answer your questions. If he needs to order lab work or imaging, he can send those orders electronically to a facility near you.
When telehealth works well
Certain types of appointments translate easily into virtual visits. You can handle many routine medical needs without coming into the office. These include:
Follow-up appointments
If you’re checking in after starting a new medication or recovering from an illness, a video call often provides everything Dr. Bharaj needs to assess your progress. You can discuss how you’re feeling, report any side effects, and get your treatment plan adjusted if needed.
Medication management
We can provide refills, dosage adjustments, and medication reviews via telehealth. Dr. Bharaj can evaluate whether your current medications are controlling your condition and make changes without requiring you to come in.
Minor illness evaluation
We can diagnose and treat colds, flu, sinus infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and other common illnesses virtually. Dr. Bharaj can assess your symptoms, determine whether you need medication, and send prescriptions to your pharmacy.
Mental health concerns
Anxiety, depression, and stress management conversations often feel more comfortable when you’re in your own space. Virtual visits remove the barrier of having to travel to an office when you’re struggling emotionally.
Chronic disease monitoring
Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and asthma require regular check-ins. You can share your blood sugar logs, blood pressure readings, or peak flow measurements during a telehealth visit so Dr. Bharaj can track your condition and adjust your treatment plan.
When you need an in-person visit
Some situations require hands-on examination or testing that we can’t do on a screen. You should schedule an office appointment when you need:
- Physical examination of specific body parts
- Blood work or other lab testing
- Imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds
- Procedures like injections or wound care
- New or severe symptoms that need immediate evaluation
If you’re not sure whether we can handle your concern virtually, call the office. Our experienced staff can help you decide which type of appointment makes sense.
How to prepare for your telehealth appointment
A little preparation helps your virtual visit go smoothly. Before your appointment:
- Test your camera and microphone
- Check your internet connection
- Confirm you can access the video platform
- Find a quiet, private space without interruptions
- Position yourself facing a window or lamp for good lighting
- Have your medication list ready
- Prepare any questions you want to ask
- Gather symptom logs, blood pressure readings, or other tracking data
Good lighting helps Dr. Bharaj see you clearly during the exam. Avoid sitting with a bright window or lamp behind you, which creates shadows on your face.
Schedule your telehealth visit in Parkville, Maryland
Virtual appointments give you flexibility without sacrificing quality care. Dr. Bharaj provides the same thorough evaluation and treatment planning whether you’re sitting in the exam room or connecting from home.
Call our office at 410-661-4670 or request an appointment using our online booking tool to schedule your telehealth visit.
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