Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. It cannot be cured, but symptoms may be alleviated.
A gastroenterologist who specializes in diseases of the digestive system can diagnose and treat Crohn’s disease. Scheduling ongoing follow-up appointments with your gastroenterologist can help monitor your condition and control inflammation.
However, due to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), some people may be concerned about in-person visits.
There is no need to delay getting tested for Crohn’s disease. Many doctors, including gastroenterologists, offer telemedicine visits. This is a type of virtual visit done via mobile phone or computer.
These types of visits have increased during the pandemic. This is an option that can help you get Crohn’s disease testing effectively while staying safe.
Here’s how to manage Crohn’s disease with telemedicine and how to get the most out of your appointment.
Telemedicine, also known as telemedicine, uses technology to provide medical care. This technology includes video conferencing, telephone calls, text messaging, and online portals.
Before the pandemic, telehealth was primarily used by people in rural and underserved communities. Many clinics are now offering telemedicine as a way to safely provide care.
Not only are these visits convenient, but they also reduce the potential for spread of the virus in waiting rooms.
Managing Crohn’s disease through telemedicine is similar to managing Crohn’s disease through in-person visits. You can use a virtual appointment to discuss your symptoms, flare-ups, and overall health with your doctor.
You can contact your doctor’s office to set up a telehealth visit or schedule an appointment through our online portal (where available). These portals can also provide information about past visits and test results.
During a telehealth visit, your doctor can review your medical records, answer questions, and even write prescriptions.
Telemedicine costs vary depending on insurance coverage. Please contact your insurance company to determine your out-of-pocket costs before scheduling your virtual appointment. If these types of visits are covered, your copays may be the same as your in-person copays.
Please have your insurance card and your debit or credit card nearby on the day of your reservation.
Prepare in advance by writing a list of all medications you currently take. Remember to write down any questions or concerns you may have.
Your doctor may ask you to measure your vitals before your appointment. This includes weighing you and measuring your blood pressure.
To get the most out of your virtual appointment with your gastroenterologist, choose a quiet location with good internet access. If possible, please wear headphones during your appointment. This makes it easier to hear and communicate with your doctor.
Be prepared to take notes during the interview. If possible, set aside a few minutes early to log on and troubleshoot in case you run into any technical issues. Please note that you may need to download software to make your reservation.
If your Crohn’s disease is stable, telemedicine may be an option for follow-up care.
Virtual booking has many benefits. You can consult a doctor from anywhere, including your home or work.
It’s convenient because you don’t have to drive to the hospital after work. If you stay home, you don’t have to arrange childcare.
Not only is telemedicine easy to fit into your schedule, but the benefit is that you can schedule appointments without risking exposure to the virus. This can happen while sitting in the waiting room.
It’s also easy to invite loved ones to participate, ask questions, and take notes on your behalf. Recently, some clinics have placed restrictions on the number of people who can accompany patients to their examinations.
Not all Crohn’s disease tests can be done virtually.
If you are newly diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or are having trouble managing your Crohn’s disease, you may need an in-person evaluation.
You must also schedule an in-person appointment for all lab work and imaging tests.
If you are uncomfortable using technology or do not have access to a reliable phone or internet connection, a telehealth visit may not be the right option for you. Some people have concerns about sharing personal health data electronically.
If your health insurance does not cover telehealth, virtual appointments may incur additional out-of-pocket costs.
Telemedicine is an option for managing Crohn’s disease, but it’s not an option for everyone.
If you are seeing a gastroenterologist for the first time, or if you have recently been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, your doctor may need an in-person examination to establish treatment.
If your symptoms are difficult to manage, your doctor may want to see you.
An in-person visit is required if your doctor needs to perform a physical exam, laboratory tests, or imaging tests.
Your doctor may also request an in-person visit if your symptoms start to worsen or if your medications stop working.
Crohn’s disease is a lifelong disease that goes through periods of remission and relapse. Seeing your doctor regularly is an essential part of managing your condition and its symptoms.
When Crohn’s disease is properly managed, telemedicine is a great option for continuing regular treatment. If you are first diagnosed or have trouble managing your symptoms, you may need to see a gastroenterologist in person.
Work with your doctor to determine which tests can be performed via telemedicine and which tests should be scheduled as an in-person visit.