The bad news is that allergy season has arrived, with its telltale yellow pollen-covered cars and itchy eyes and runny noses. (The 2013 Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American ranks Richmond among the top 22 cities in the US in their “Spring 2013 Allergy Capitals” list).
The good news is that busy families have a new high-tech tool in the battle. Sentara MDLIVE, a telehealth service, offers patients easy and immediate access to a team of board-certified physicians licensed in the state of Virginia, via Webcam, phone or email. These doctors can diagnose allergies and prescribe necessary medications during the “virtual visits” – saving patients a trip to the doctor’s office.
Kimberly Smith-Griffin, M.D, a physician with Sentara Internal Medicine Physicians in Chesapeake, VA, who also takes calls for Sentara MDLIVE, recommends over-the-counter medications as your first line of defense, including saline nasal sprays as well as antihistamines to control the symptoms of hay fever. She also recommends taking a shower and putting on fresh clothes after being outside for any length of time to minimize your exposure to the yellow stuff. But if this strategy isn’t enough to control the symptoms, it’s definitely time to consult your doctor.
“The good news is that there are effective allergy treatments available for adults and children. Sentara MDLIVE allows you to receive the care you need whenever it’s most convenient,” says Smith-Griffin.
In fact, patients can use Sentara MDLIVE for any non-emergency condition including a cold or flu, sinus infection or mild respiratory problems. The service is available to all Virginia residents (and nationwide) and the visits are often covered by insurance providers. (If not, the cost of a visit is $45 — significantly less than an ER or Urgent Care visit.)
How does it work?
Log on to www.mdlive.com/sentara or call 1 (800) 335-4836 to get started. You’ll consult with a board-certified doctor using your computer and a webcam or your telephone. Virtual appointments are usually scheduled within minutes of registration and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Sentara MDLive is a paid advertiser on Richmondmom.com
