{"id":141736,"date":"2022-03-14T06:01:35","date_gmt":"2022-03-14T13:01:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/?p=141736"},"modified":"2024-01-09T17:06:19","modified_gmt":"2024-01-10T01:06:19","slug":"helping-mom-dad-online-doctor-visits-and-telemedicine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/family-safety\/helping-mom-dad-online-doctor-visits-and-telemedicine\/","title":{"rendered":"Helping Mom &#038; Dad: Online Doctor Visits and Telemedicine"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Whether it\u2019s for routine care, a prescription refill, or a simple follow-up, online doctor visits offer tremendous benefits in terms of both convenience and ease of care\u2014all good reasons to help mom and dad get connected with it.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\"> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-141739 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/what-is-telemedine-300x151.png\" alt=\"what is telemedicine\" width=\"300\" height=\"151\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/what-is-telemedine-300x151.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/what-is-telemedine-1024x515.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/what-is-telemedine-768x387.png 768w, https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/what-is-telemedine-205x103.png 205w, https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/what-is-telemedine.png 1075w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">There\u2019s no doubt that more older adults than ever are taking advantage of online doctor visits, more formally known as telemedicine. While usage numbers have risen dramatically across all age groups, it\u2019s particularly so for elders. Pre- and post-pandemic numbers saw <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2021\/12\/03\/new-hhs-study-shows-63-fold-increase-in-medicare-telehealth-utilization-during-pandemic.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">a 63-fold increase in Medicare telemedicine use<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">However, many older patients are missing out and not using telemedicine for one reason or another.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u2019s holding them back? Several things, according to<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamainternalmedicine\/fullarticle\/2768772\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\"> research from the University of California, San Francisco<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Unreadiness with regards to technology, such as not having access to a telemedicine-ready device or knowing how to use it.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A lack of familiarity with the internet, particularly if they have not used email, texting, or the internet in general within the past month.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Physical challenges, involving vision or otherwise the ability to converse over a video call.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">No access or limited access to a broadband connection (particularly in rural areas).<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Moreover, another issue is that many older adults do not know that telemedicine is an option. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthyagingpoll.org\/reports-more\/report\/virtual-visits-telehealth-and-older-adults\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Research from the University of Michigan<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> showed that 55% of older adults surveyed were unaware if their healthcare provider even offered telemedicine as a service. And perhaps quite telling is that the same survey revealed nearly half of older adults harbored concerns about privacy and did not feel personally connected to their care provider during their visits.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For us as children and grandchildren of older adults, it can be tough knowing that a loved one is missing out on an avenue of care that they could otherwise benefit from. While we absolutely respect what they feel is comfortable and trustworthy for them, there are several other areas where we can help the older loved ones in our lives overcome the issues and concerns they face.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With that, let\u2019s talk about the technology behind telemedicine and how you can help them use it, and address some of those privacy issues as well.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Easing into telemedicine<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As indicated above, paying a visit to the doctor via telemedicine can be a big jump. Just as the idea of it is new for many of us, it\u2019s yet newer for older adults. There\u2019s a good chance that you\u2019re familiar with video chats and calls already, which gives you a foundation we can work with when it\u2019s time to see the doctor on a screen. That may not be the case for older adults. Add that into the privacy concerns and decades of seeing a doctor in person, you can see why some older adults simply choose to opt-out.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One way you can help is to have a few video chats with your older loved ones. In addition to the regular calls you make, you might want to try having a video chat with them from time to time. It\u2019s an outstanding way to spend time together when you can\u2019t be together in person, and it may develop a comfort level with the technology so that they may be willing to give telemedicine a try. You can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/family-safety\/helping-mom-dad-family-video-chats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">check out my earlier article in this series<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> that covers video chats with mom and dad, along with straightforward steps to get them up and running on the technology and how to use it.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Get them set up on the right device for telemedicine<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One thing your parents will need for their visit is a reliable device that they\u2019re comfortable using. It could be a computer or laptop, or it may be a smartphone or tablet. Note that in some cases their healthcare provider may use a telemedicine solution that has certain requirements as well, so you\u2019ll want to see what those are and ensure that the device mom or dad has is compatible. (For example, the care provider may have an app that\u2019s available through the Apple App Store or Google Play. Others may have an online platform that can be accessed by several different kinds of devices.)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If they\u2019re using a smartphone or tablet, that will likely make things easier because the camera and microphone are already integrated into the device\u2014all set up and ready to go. For a computer or laptop, you can help them get familiar with the setup, like the microphone levels, speaker volume, and camera. For audio, you can see a set of headphones or smartphone earbuds work well for them, which can help prevent audio feedback loops and simply make it easier to hear the caregiver. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you\u2019re looking for a little assistance with a Windows computer, you can\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/windows\/how-to-set-up-and-test-microphones-in-windows-10-ba9a4aab-35d1-12ee-5835-cccac7ee87a4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">check out this quick article for setting up the audio<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202fand\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/windows\/open-the-camera-in-windows-10-8da044ed-c4a8-2fb4-da51-232362e4126d#:~:text=To%20open%20up%20your%20webcam,Let%20apps%20use%20my%20camera.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">this article for setting up the camera<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. For Macs, check out\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.apple.com\/en-in\/guide\/mac-help\/mchla1b1e1fe\/mac#:~:text=On%20your%20Mac%2C%20choose%20Apple,%26%20Privacy%2C%20then%20click%20Privacy.&amp;text=Select%20Microphone.,it%20to%20access%20the%20microphone.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">this article for audio<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202fand\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/support.apple.com\/en-in\/guide\/mac-help\/mchlf6d108da\/mac\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">this article for the video<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Make sure their technology is secure<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If they don\u2019t already have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/en-us\/antivirus\/mcafee-total-protection.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">comprehensive online protection software for their devices<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, look into getting it. This will protect them against malware, viruses, and phishing attacks. They\u2019ll also benefit from other features that help them manage their passwords, protect their identity, safeguard their privacy, and more.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As for privacy in general, medical information is among the most precious information any of us have. For example, here in the U.S., we have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/hipaa\/for-individuals\/index.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">HIPPA<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> privacy standards to protect our medical records and conversations. Yet there\u2019s also the issue of eavesdropping, which is a risk in practically any online communication.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To help address privacy issues and concerns, health care providers will often post a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) as part of their telemedicine service. Within that, you\u2019ll very likely find a section on personal privacy and the technologies in place to protect it. Here\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwmedicine.org\/services\/virtual-clinic\/faq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">a good example of a telemedicine FAQ<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> from the University of Washington Medicine and another example from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virginiamason.org\/telehealth-for-patients\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">the telemedicine page that Virginia Mason\/Franciscan Health designed for its patients<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In all, if your parents have concerns about their privacy, you can absolutely assure them that it\u2019s a valid concern. Consult the provider\u2019s FAQ for guidance. If either of you has further questions, feel free to call the healthcare provider and speak with them.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Help them pick a private place and get prepared for the call<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In addition to digital security, there\u2019s the possibility of physical eavesdropping, somebody actually listening in on their conversation from another room, apartment, or from the street. Help your older loved ones pick a place in their home where they can have some privacy and where they can\u2019t be overheard by neighbors and passers-by. A bedroom is a fine place\u2014or any location that\u2019s familiar and comfortable as well. When choosing a private place, a well-lit location is important as well so that the camera captures a nice and clear image.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Additionally, you can help them prep for their visit by putting together a list of things to discuss during the visit. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/telehealth.hhs.gov\/patients\/preparing-for-a-video-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests writing things down<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Make a list of their current medications (or gather the actual bottles).<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Write down any symptoms, questions, or concerns they want to discuss during the appointment, so they do not forget them.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If their doctor has requested information like their temperature or weight have this information ready.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Keep paper nearby to take notes about what the doctor says during the video visit.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Make their telemedicine visit safer with these tips<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In addition to the above, there are further measures you can help your parents or older loved one take to further secure their telemedicine visit\u2014and their internet usage in general.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">1) Use strong, unique passwords<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Your telemedicine visit may require setting up a new account and password. When doing so, make sure it\u2019s with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/consumer\/strong-password-ideas-to-keep-your-information-safe\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">strong, unique password<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. A password manager can help. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/en-us\/antivirus\/mcafee-total-protection.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Also found in comprehensive online protection software, a password manager<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> can create and securely store strong and unique passwords for your mom and dad, giving them one less thing they need to remember and worry about.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">2) Use a VPN<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A VPN, or virtual private network, offers a strong layer of additional protection when you\u2019re transmitting health data or simply having a private conversation about your health with a professional. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel to keep you and your activity anonymous. In effect, your data is scrambled and hidden to anyone outside your VPN tunnel, thus making your private information difficult to collect. Check with the care provider to see if their telemedicine solution uses a VPN. If not, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/en-us\/vpn.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">you can always get a VPN as part of your online protection software<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">3) Secure their internet router<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Beyond their devices, securing their internet router is an important step in making a telemedicine visit safe and secure. The data that travels along it is of a highly personal nature already, so <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/consumer\/strong-password-ideas-to-keep-your-information-safe\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">make sure the router has a strong and unique password<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Also, change the name of their router so it doesn\u2019t give away their address or any other signs of their identity. One more step is to check that your router is using an encryption method, like WPA2, which will keep your signal secure. If you have questions, check with their internet provider\u2014they may even offer up a newer, more secure router to replace an older one.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The best telemedicine choice is the one that\u2019s right for your parents<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As with anything concerning their health, have your parents and loved ones consult with their caregivers to ensure that a telemedicine visit is a proper course for them. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">So while the technical ins and outs of preparing for a telemedicine visit may have their challenges for some older adults, we should also realize that getting comfortable with the idea of a telemedicine visit in the first place may take some time and effort. Starting with regular video chats with the family may increase familiarity and ease with holding a conversation over video. Likewise, having a conversation with their doctor about telemedicine may put some concerns to rest as well. After all, they will have a relationship with their doctor. Getting the facts from the doctor, face to face may help.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">We all want what\u2019s best, particularly when it comes to the care of our parents and older loved ones in our lives, and choosing to try telemedicine is a highly personal decision for them. I hope this article and the resources cited within it will help you enable them to make the choice that\u2019s comfortable, effective, and right for them.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether it\u2019s for routine care, a prescription refill, or a simple follow-up, online doctor visits offer tremendous benefits in terms&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":674,"featured_media":141766,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[14209,14203,6238,14206],"coauthors":[3973],"class_list":["post-141736","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-family-safety","tag-how-does-telemedicine-work","tag-online-doctor-visit","tag-telemedicine","tag-what-is-telemedicine"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Helping Mom &amp; 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