Now your doctor is in your pocket.
Telemedicine is a form of online communication used to provide patient care. It’s a simple, effective way to offer patients care without exposing them to others with potentially contagious conditions. It also allows for patients in far-away areas to receive care without leaving their homes. For these reasons and more, Theron McCormick, MD, pediatric allergy immunologist and population health medical director at Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group, has been a major advocate for telemedicine at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health.
“The digital world is space where we can reach out to patients,” Dr. McCormick says. “I thought telemedicine would be a helpful way for us to remove barriers to our practice.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends telemedicine for COVID-19 symptom screenings and referrals. It’s also used to help patients manage chronic conditions and to provide low-risk urgent care.
“It’s a valuable part of the patient experience to communicate directly with your provider,” Dr. McCormick says. “Over 80 percent of health takes place outside of our walls, in patients’ own personal lives. Meeting our patients where they are helps us bridge that gap.”
Dr. McCormick believes that the use of telemedicine during COVID-19 has opened more possibilities for direct provider-patient communication.
“Being able to meet people, at their fingertips, wherever they need us, even in between visits, is a valuable tool,” he says. “We’re putting our patients first by doing this.”
For existing patients, visit ololchildrens.org/mychart to find out more about scheduling a telemedicine appointment.
Telemedicine FAQ
Who can schedule an appointment?
Both new and existing patients can set up telemedicine appointments.
Do I need a specific device for telemedicine?
No. You can use your desktop computer, tablet or mobile phone for your telemedicine appointment. All you need is an internet connection.
What if my child needs further care?
If your physician decides your child needs further care, you can schedule a follow-up in-person visit during your telemedicine appointment.
“More than 80% of health takes place outside of our walls, in patients’ own personal lives.”
—Dr. McCormick
Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health offers exceptional, convenient care. Learn more about Louisiana’s largest pediatric network.
