The current home-based on-line cultural reaction to COVID-19 may be extending to healthcare. Beloit Area Community Health COO Stephen Smith anticipates the rapid growth and development of virtual or televisits. Smith says just like a traditional office visit, you make an appointment to see the doctor, but it’ll just be by video chat or even a phone call. A patient will share their symptoms and concerns, and a health care professional will assess the next step, which could still include a trip to the clinic for further tests. Virtual visits are voluntary, but Smith says it may be a good way to prevent the spread of illness and also protect health care workers.
