When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is leave home. Good news: You don’t have to. Telehealth has come a long way since the 1900s, when Willem Einthoven, inventor of the EKG machine, began giving medical consultations over the phone.
Today’s virtual care means you can consult a health care provider right from your phone or laptop for a surprising number of concerns, far beyond sore throats and coughs. Whether you need a first-time consultation or a prescription refill, here are some conditions you might be surprised to learn can be treated virtually at Rush. Already know what you need? Get care today or tomorrow, virtually.
1. Acne and anti-aging skin care
Got an embarrassing rash or stubborn acne that’s making you want to hide? We’ve got you covered. You can now treat some of your skin issues without stepping foot in a dermatologist's office. Whether you’re dealing with persistent acne or seeking anti-aging solutions, virtual dermatology visits offer expert advice, prescription treatments and personalized skin care regimens. With high-resolution photos and video consultations, our providers can assess your skin and create a customized treatment plan just for you.
2. Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is personal and can be tough to talk about in person. Thankfully, with virtual consultations, you can discuss your symptoms discreetly with a urology provider, receive a diagnosis, and even have prescriptions delivered to your pharmacy in minutes. This private, convenient option makes managing ED easier and less stressful.
3. Snoring and recurrent sinus infections
Snoring problem keeping your partner awake? Get evaluated virtually. Ear, nose and throat (ENT) providers can assess snoring and sinus issues through telehealth, helping to identify underlying causes and recommend treatments, whether it’s lifestyle changes, medications or referrals for further testing like sleep studies.
Instead of going in for another urgent care visit for a problem you've had multiple times this year, talk to an ENT specialist in the comfort of your own home. Experienced professionals can prescribe medication and identify if you need follow-up care to deal with an underlying problem.
4. High blood pressure and high cholesterol
Managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol doesn’t have to involve constant trips to the doctor’s office. Through telehealth, cardiology providers can talk with you about your levels, adjust medications and provide lifestyle advice to keep your heart healthy. You can even share data from home monitoring devices, making it easier to stay on top of your condition.
5. Male hair loss
Worried about thinning hair? You don’t need to leave home to get help. Virtual consultations with dermatology providers can address male hair loss, offering treatments like prescription medications and topical solutions. Discuss your concerns and receive expert guidance — all from the comfort of your couch.
6. Recurrent urinary tract infections
Frequent urinary tract infections can be frustrating and painful. You want relief fast. At Rush, we offer same-day or next-day appointments with urology providers who can assess your symptoms, review your history, and provide prescriptions or recommendations to help prevent future infections. This is especially helpful for those who experience recurrent UTIs.
7. Kidney stones
Kidney stones can be incredibly painful, but how do you know if you should try to pass the stone at home or come in for medical care? Virtual care can help. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a kidney stone, a virtual visit can help determine the severity of your condition, provide advice on pain management and hydration, and decide if further testing or treatment is needed. Plus, your provider can discuss preventive measures to reduce the risk of future stones.
What is virtual care, anyway?
Virtual care — also known as telehealth — uses technology like video calls, phone calls and messaging apps to deliver health care services remotely. It allows you to consult with providers, receive diagnoses, and even get prescriptions without needing to visit a clinic. Telehealth is convenient and time-saving and can be just as effective as in-person care for many conditions. Plus, it’s perfect for those who prefer the privacy and comfort of a virtual visit.
Rush uses MyChart for virtual care, offering a secure, convenient, and easy-to-use platform that allows you to manage your care from anywhere.
With the growing availability of virtual services, it’s easier than ever to take control of your health, no matter where you are. Virtual options at Rush make health care more accessible and convenient. And if an in-person visit is necessary, continuing your care is seamless and simple at one of our many locations throughout Chicago, the suburbs and northwest Indiana.
