Frequently Asked Questions

What is telehealth?

Telehealth allows you to meet with a healthcare provider remotely using a secure video or audio connection. Telehealth can be used for many urgent, chronic, preventive, and follow-up healthcare needs without requiring an in-person office visit.

What conditions can be treated through telehealth?

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, telehealth may be appropriate for concerns such as:

• Colds, cough, congestion, and sore throat

• Sinus symptoms

• Allergies

• Mild respiratory symptoms

• Rashes and certain skin conditions

• Urinary symptoms

• Mild gastrointestinal concerns

• Medication refills and medication management

• Follow-up after an urgent care or emergency department visit

• Chronic condition follow-up

• Hypertension follow-up

• Weight-management services

• Review of laboratory or diagnostic results

• Preventive healthcare and health counseling

• Other conditions that can safely be evaluated remotely

Your provider will determine whether telehealth is appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.

Can everything be treated through telehealth?

No. Telehealth is not a substitute for emergency or hands-on medical care when an in-person examination, diagnostic testing, imaging, procedures, or immediate intervention is necessary.

If your provider determines that you need in-person evaluation, you may be directed to an urgent care center, emergency department, primary care provider, specialist, or other appropriate facility.

What are the warning signs of a stroke?

Remember BE FAST:

B — Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
E — Eyes: Sudden vision changes
F — Face: One side of the face droops
A — Arm: Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm
S — Speech: Slurred, confused, or difficult speech
T — Time: Call 911 immediately

If you suspect a stroke, DO NOT WAIT for a telehealth appointment. CALL 911. Immediate treatment can reduce the risk of permanent disability.

Does my provider need to know where I am during my appointment?

Yes. For your safety, you may be asked to confirm your current physical location at the beginning of your telehealth appointment. This allows your provider to determine the appropriate emergency resources if an emergency occurs during the visit. 

Can I receive prescriptions through telehealth?

Prescriptions may be provided when clinically appropriate and permitted by applicable laws and regulations. A prescription is not guaranteed. Your provider will determine whether medication is appropriate based on your medical history, symptoms, examination, and available information.

Can my provider order laboratory tests or imaging?

When clinically appropriate, your provider may order laboratory testing, diagnostic studies, or other services. Some conditions may require testing or an in-person examination before a diagnosis or treatment plan can be established.

Do you provide interpreter services?

 Yes. Shining Hearts Medical Group can arrange professional medical interpreter services when needed. Please indicate your preferred language when scheduling or completing your intake forms so we can make appropriate arrangements for your visit.