Unsure if telemedicine is for you? Learn about the differences between telemedicine & in-person care. Visit one of our East TN clinics.  

It seemed like the perfect day; you took the family to the Chattanooga Zoo then ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery. Or maybe you spent the day diving into the past at the Oak Ridge History Museum. Everything was fine until you came down with a fever later that night.  

Is it more than a 24-hour bug? Where can you find fast, convenient care? 

Healthcare has come a long way, and today, many issues can be addressed without ever leaving your couch. That said, in-person visits are still essential and can still provide more comprehensive care. Knowing when to choose telemedicine and in-person treatment can save you time, energy, and worry. 

Visit an East Tennessee AFC clinic today. 

Telemedicine: Treatment at Home 

Telemedicine allows you to virtually meet with a healthcare provider, usually via phone, tablet, or computer. It’s perfect for those not-so-serious issues that still need a professional’s input. 

Best for: 

• Mild cold or flu symptoms 
• Seasonal allergies 
• Medication refills 
• Follow-up appointments 
• Chronic condition check-ins (like asthma or eczema) 
• Reviewing test results 

Why Patients Like It: 

• No drive time: Stay home and get care from your bed. 
• Quick access: Appointments are often faster, with no time spent in a waiting room. 
• Simple issues, solved fast: Things like rashes, or nausea are usually easy to diagnose over tele-video. 
• Digital convenience: Some E-prescriptions, test results, and provider chats can be accessed online. 

What to Keep in Mind: 

• No hands-on exam: If you’re in pain or having trouble breathing, in-person is the safer choice. 
• Potential tech problems: A solid internet connection and a full battery is a must. 
• Not for emergencies: Anything serious should be evaluated by a provider. 

In-Person Visits: When You Need That Extra Reassurance 

Some health concerns just can’t be handled through a screen. At AFC, we offer walk-in care seven days a week, with on-site labs, X-rays, and a team that knows East Tennesseans and their healthcare needs. 

AFC is best for:  

• Injuries like sprains, strains, fractures, and broken bones 
• Lingering or severe symptoms 
• Sports, school, or camp physicals 
• Testing for flu, COVID-19, and RSV 
• STD testing and treatment 
• Burns, rashes, and bites 

Why It Matters: 

• Thorough evaluations: Sometimes, a visual or physical exam is necessary to make the right diagnosis. 
• On-site resources: Imaging, lab testing, and treatment are all available at our AFC clinics. 

Potential Drawbacks: 

• Time and travel: You might have to slip some shoes on, drive, and possibly wait to be seen. 
• Not always needed: Minor symptoms can easily be handled virtually. 

Still Not Sure? Here’s a Quick Breakdown: 

Convenience: 

• Choose telemedicine if symptoms are mild and you have a good internet connection. 
• Go in-person if the issue seems complex or you’re unsure what’s going on. 

Type of Care: 

• Use telemedicine for follow-ups, minor symptoms, or med refills. 
• Choose in-person care for anything that may require a test, X-ray, or physical evaluation. 

Final Takeaways 

Both telemedicine and in-person visits are designed with your health and comfort in mind. Ultimately, the right choice depends on how you’re feeling, how serious the symptoms are, and what kind of care you need. 

Regardless, here in East Tennessee, you can find numerous AFC clinics near you. So, no matter what activity you find yourself doing, we’re here to provide first-rate care with no tech required.