ROME, Ga., Jan. 5, 2023 – It's 8 a.m. and you're miserable: fever, aching joints and stuffed up nose. The thought of spending time in a waiting room sounds miserable. What do you do?
If you've ever wondered where to go when you're feeling sick or injured, you're not alone. Nearly 130 million people head to the emergency room each year, but a large percentage of those visits are not actual emergencies.
Atrium Health Floyd offers several accessible options for care, including the convenience of virtual care, that can be perfect if you want to be seen from the comfort of your own house or office.
'Virtual care is a great option for someone with flu-like symptoms, rashes or even seasonal allergies," said Dr. Pamela Hearn, who treats patients of all ages at Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care Family Medicine & Pediatrics Polk. “Many people have access to the internet through their phone, tablet, or computer. That means they can talk to their doctor wherever they are."
eVisits are another care option available that allow you to have a consultation via email with a provider who can provide a care plan and prescribe medicine if needed.
“Sometimes a patient may just have a few questions they want answered," Hearn said. An eVisit is perfect for that."
To set up an eVisit, Log in to MyAtriumHealth.org, select “Symptom Checker" from the menu and answer a few questions about your symptoms. It may be determined that another option is right for you.
You should visit your primary care doctor in person, for
- Moderate illnesses and non-life threatening symptoms
- Basic, yearly check-ups, vaccinations, and health screenings
- Chronic illnesses like high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.
For a complete list of Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care and Urgent Care physicians, visit www.floyd.org