[Sticky] Conditions requiring physical exam or imaging

in most cases, telemedicine is NOT appropriate when a condition clearly requires a hands-on physical exam or imaging to make a safe diagnosis.

Many problems can only be evaluated properly with:

• Direct palpation or movement testing

• Listening to heart / lungs / abdomen

• Looking in the ears, throat, or eyes with instruments

• X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasound, or other imaging

Because these cannot be done virtually, a telehealth provider will usually redirect you to in-person care if such an exam is needed.

Examples of conditions that usually need in-person evaluation or imaging

• Suspected fractures or major injuries

• Head trauma or concussion assessment

• Severe abdominal pain

• Chest pain or suspected heart/lung problems

• Possible appendicitis, gallbladder disease, or kidney stones

• Pelvic pain with concerning symptoms

• Ear pain in very young children (requires ear exam)

• Eye injuries or vision loss

• Severe or rapidly worsening infections

• Any condition where urgent labs or imaging may be necessary

Telemedicine isn’t safe as the first step for these because delays could miss serious disease.

👍 When telemedicine can still play a role

Even for these conditions, a virtual visit may help with:

• Triage (helping choose ER vs urgent care vs clinic)

• Reviewing prior results or follow-up after treatment

• Counseling and medication review

• Monitoring recovery or chronic symptoms

But the initial diagnostic evaluation must be done in person.