Phoebe physician discusses telemedicine during COVID-19 pandemic

(ALBANY, GA) — With the main Phoebe Hospital campus being used solely for coronavirus concerns, many are turning to telemedicine sessions with physicians to get looked at.

While there are some difficulties, one phoebe physician says it hasnt been that difficult to adjust.

Chief Medical Officer for Phoebe Physicians, Dr. William Fricks tells us, “80 to 90 percent of that diagnosis comes from what the patient tells us, and not so much the physical exam. The exam kind of confirms what our theory already is.”

As doctors and patients begin to adjust through having an appointment through a screen, it’s much simpler during the pandemic to practice social distancing than keeping a clinic open.

Dr. Fricks says, “We want to keep them at home, where they’re the safest. They’re less likely to spread the virus around. So this is just one other way to keep people out of hot spots like a clinic, where you tend to congregate a lot of sick people.”

Despite ongoing efforts to stop the spread of Coronavirus, Phoebe physicians have noticed some differences

“I think people are missing out on some opportunities, and we have availability now that we’ve implemented these virtual and telehealth visits. So people can continue to see their doctors about their concerns,” says Dr. Fricks.

While it’s unknown how long it will be before clinics can hold physical appointments again, operating over a screen is the best way to get checked up and flatten the curve.

For more information on telemedicine, you can contact Phoebe physicians at 229-312-MYMD (6963)