It is not uncommon to see some people seek medical advice online instead of having a traditional medical check up. In my mind, this is happening largely because online medical services are instant and affordable; however, I believe online medical assistance is no substitute for doctor visits.
The fact that some people today turn to online medical experts for help with their health problems is hardly surprising. Compared to traditional medical check ups, which many find inconvenient due to long wait time and hospital conditions, online medical consultations are swift and hassle-free. People would rather book an online chat with a health expert and instantly have their questions answered than fill in forms and stand in line for hours for a mere 5-minute examination with their doctor, especially when they have a minor condition. Besides, people are thrilled to pay a fraction of their usual medical bills to receive expert advice online. It is, indeed, relieving to know one does not have to pay through the nose, say, to find out whether their sporadic headache is related to any major health problem or just temporary.
Although online medical advice proves more convenient and cheaper, this is not to say it is the right way to go about checking one’s medical condition. Firstly, doctors often perform several physical tests which require physical contact in order to ascertain the patient’s condition. Medical inspections such as checking heart rhythm, swelling intensity, and mobility can only be performed in person by a trained medic, and without these tests, a doctor might misdiagnose their patient. Secondly, patients are at risk of falling victim to scammers online, who practice medicine without a license. This means the patient would not only be defrauded by unprofessional doctors, but they would be taking a gamble with their health. Finally, since online medical websites collect patient data, there is also a risk of the patient’s medical history being leaked online, causing nuisance and distress to the individual.
In conclusion, even though it is natural that people prefer instant and affordable online medical services in favor of their traditional counterparts in some instances, I reckon that it is more sensible to confer with one’s doctor in person so as to receive the most optimal medical advice and avoid being scammed or having their personal record exposed.