Need care, but don’t know whether to choose telemedicine or in-person care? Learn which option is best for you & why locals choose AFC. 

Want to avoid the traffic and people of downtown Knoxville? Does your 9-5 make it difficult to meet your medical needs? Recently, telemedicine has helped solve problems like these. 

Telemedicine has shifted from a novelty to a standard part of healthcare. Thanks to improved technology and more comfort with virtual tools, patients in Fountain City and across the country are increasingly open to seeing their doctors from the comfort of home. 

But what if you twisted your ankle exploring the Dogwood Trails, or your kid caught that pesky pink eye that’s going around school? How do you know which type of care is better suited for your needs? 

Let’s break down the benefits of both options so the next time you can feel confident in your decision. 

Visit AFC Fountain City today.  

What is Telemedicine and Why is it so Popular? 

Telemedicine is all about convenience. It’s a way for patients to receive medical care digitally, usually by phone or video. Users of telemedicine have reported equal or better satisfaction with their appointments and communication with physicians.  

Reasons why people use telemedicine: 

• Allergies: Seasonal allergy management and prescription refills. 
• Rashes and minor skin conditions: Including acne, eczema, or minor irritations (especially with video support). 
• Headaches and migraines: Evaluation and management, especially for chronic sufferers. 
• Medication refills: For stable, ongoing prescriptions like birth control or blood pressure meds. 
• Chronic condition check-ins: For patients managing diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, etc. 
• Post-visit follow-ups: To review lab results or monitor recovery after an in-person visit. 

Why telemedicine is preferred: 

• No travel needed, just grab your device. 
• Digital tools such as online portals and E-prescriptions are available. 
• Fast care for common issues like allergies, nausea, or follow-up care. 

The limitations of telemedicine: 

• With no physical exam, providers are unable to identify other health concerns that could be contributing to your condition. 
• Technology is required. You have to have it, and you have to know how to use it. 
• Only beneficial for minor issues not emergencies. Serious conditions should always be treated in-person. 

Why In-Person Care is Still Relevant 

As convenient as telemedicine is, there are still plenty of times when seeing a provider face-to-face makes the most sense. Here at AFC Fountain City, our team’s number one priority is you and your health. You’re more than a face on a screen to us.  

Benefits of In-Person Visits: 

• Physical exams matter: Some medical conditions require a hands-on assessment that simply can’t be done over a screen. 
• Stronger personal connections: In-person visits can strengthen the relationship between provider and patient, which can improve your overall experience and trust. 
• Immediate Treatment: Chest pain or severe bleeding? Our clinic can treat you on the spot.  

AFC Fountain City specifically offers: 

• Rapid testing for COVID-19, strep, flu, and RSV 
• Sports and school physicals 
• Care for pulled, sprained, broken or dislocated bones and muscles 
• Testing and treatment for Monkeypox 
• On site X-Ray and lab services 

How Do the Two Compare? 

The bottom line? Use telemedicine for convenience and speed. Go in person when a physical exam or in-depth care is needed. Still unsure? Here’s a quick comparison. 

Convenience 

• Telemedicine: Saves you time and money spent on transportation. Only truly convenient if the medical condition is routine or a non-life-threatening issue that does not require a hands-on exam. 
• In-person: You might not be able to meet your provider with your slippers on, but our clinic makes it easy to schedule appointments in advance and save your spot online. 

Level of care 

• Telemedicine: For minor issues like your summer allergies or a prescription refill.  
• In-person: For more complex conditions like an abscess or burn.  

Wrapping it Up 

You don’t have to choose one or the other for good. Think of it like choosing the right tool for the job, with both options available, you can get the care you need, how and when you need it. 

Whether you’re booking a telemedicine appointment from your couch or visiting AFC Fountain City, all that matters is that you’re comfortable.  

But here in Knoxville, we provide high-quality care to all our patients. No screens needed.