Away at College? Here's How Telemedicine Can Help
Key Takeaways
- Telemedicine makes it easier for college students to access healthcare while they're away from home.
- Virtual Urgent Care can be a convenient option for many common, non-emergency illnesses and minor health concerns.
- Students ages 18 and older who are currently located in New York or Florida can connect with a University of Rochester Medicine provider from almost anywhere.
- A little planning before move-in day, like downloading MyChart and organizing your health information, can make it easier to get care when you need it
Between heavy course loads a busy life on cam finding time to see a doctor isn't always easy—especially when you're away from home.
University of Rochester Medicine offers Virtual Urgent Care telehealth services for adults ages 18 and older who are currently located in New York or Florida. Whether you're connecting from your dorm room, apartment, student center, or between classes, care is always a few clicks away.
When College Students Should Use Virtual Urgent Care
Virtual Urgent Care can be a convenient option for many non-emergency health concerns.
However, your provider might recommend scheduling an in-person visit if you have urgent symptoms, such as shortness of breath or a persistent cough, or if you have symptoms that may indicate COVID-19 and require a diagnostic test.
Consider a virtual visit for:
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Sore throat or laryngitis
- Sinus infections
- Allergies
- Minor skin conditions, including rashes and bug bites
- Pink eye
- Minor digestive concerns
If you don’t have a primary care provider, good news: you can get set up as a new patient with URochester Medicine after your virtual appointment. This will make it easier to schedule an appointment the next time you need one.
Is a Virtual Visit the right choice?
Explore our Symptom Guide to find out if telemedicine is a good fit for your symptoms.
Video Visit Do’s and Don’ts
We’ve got you covered with telemedicine tips to get the most out of your video visit:
- Location: You can do a video visit from anywhere your phone has internet/data access, but it’s best to have a quiet space where you can focus.
- Privacy: It’s best to be alone during a video visit, for medical privacy reasons. If you’ve got a roommate, try to find somewhere to be alone.
- Internet: Be sure your internet connection is stable, whether through Wi-Fi or cellular data on your phone.
- Camera: Set up your camera before the appointment. Have your device resting on a flat, stable surface, be sure your area is well-lit, and have the camera at eye level.
- Preparation: Write down what you want to discuss: your symptoms, any current medications, and your temperature if it’s relevant. Keep your pen and paper handy to take notes while you talk to the doctor.
- Reminder: Don’t forget to request a doctor’s note, available immediately after your visit, if you missed class or work because of your health conditions.
Expert Advice: Make a Healthcare Plan Before Move-In Day
Preparing for college means more than packing your belongings and finalizing your class schedule. Taking time to plan for your healthcare needs can save you time and stress later. Some simple ways to get started:
- Download the MyChart app
- Keep insurance cards or information in a safe, accessible place
- Set up a plan for accessing virtual care
- Keep medications and pharmacy information handy
Get Care Now
If you’re not able to be seen at your primary care provider’s office, Virtual Urgent Care is a quick and convenient way to get telemedicine care from anywhere.
Connect with us!
