We’ve all been passing around a bit of a cold this last week. My four year old has this wicked cough that sometimes even causes him to throw up. It’s always so sad to see your kids sick and they are so sad to have to stay inside and rest. Especially now that the weather is warm and it’s spring–what a terrible time to get sick!
I don’t know about you, but sometimes it can be really hard to make it to the doctor. My husband has literally had a cold for about four months–sore throat, achey, fatigue, cough, everything. Four months! He’s always complaining about it but yet won’t go see a doctor. It’s not a matter of principle, it’s a matter of never having time. He is always so busy and there are always a million other things that take priority (although your health really should take first priority right? But we don’t always do that.)
I was curious to try out this new app/website called American Well. It’s an online medical service where you can see real doctors via your phone or your computer. I downloaded the free app, created a profile and then selected a doctor to start my online doctor’s visit!
I waited for a few minutes, probably about five (which is a lot less time than it takes to get in the car and drive there plus wait in the waiting room where everyone is hacking up a lung) and then I was connected via video.
I was actually surprised it was a live video and I wish I had done my hair haha but it’s only a quick visit. You could pick the same doctor every time though so they will get to know your kids.
I asked the doctor about my son’s cough and she told me that it’s safe to give him Robitussin DM (5 mL every 6-8 hours) which will definitely help him sleep and get over his cough faster.
I asked her how well she can diagnose things over the internet and she said there are many things you can determine based on just symptom descriptions. And she can prescribe things right there and they send the prescription right to your pharmacy so you can pick it up at your convenience.
I really was impressed with this simple app–connecting patients and doctors as quickly as a push of a button. Obviously you can’t get shots and stuff but if you think you have a sinus infection, you can get a prescription for an antibiotic really easily.
American Well takes most insurances as well. It’s actually the nation’s largest telehealth company. Some general conditions the doctors encounter include: minor illnesses and injuries, general health and wellness concerns, prescription refills, and chronic condition management. They have all kinds of medical professionals–from primary care to specialists to nutritionists and behavior therapists. And one of the best parts is that they are available 24 hours a day! It always seems like when you need a doctor the most is at night or on the weekends right?
It’s actually a really amazing app that I would love to use more. Going to the doctor is never very convenient, especially when you feel so sick you can’t even imagine getting out of bed. It’s like a return to the old days of at-home visits by your doctor. Cool!
Do you want to try American Well? Next time you or your kiddies are feeling under the weather, use the code MOMSQUAD to get a free visit! Click the green button below.
And please visit them on their social media sites:
Facebook Twitter Instagram Google+
Compensation was provided by American Well via MomTrends. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions of American Well or Momtrends.
Leave a Reply