5 surprising ways an online dermatologist can help you keep your 2021 resolutions
Resolution season is upon us! “New year, new me” is a common mantra after a most uncommon year. Many of us are looking forward to growth opportunities in every area of our lives. While upgrading skin, hair, and nail health with the help of an online dermatologist is a pretty obvious use of our services, using telemedicine as a tool for intentional improvement is an innovative approach to a longstanding tradition.
Here are five resolutions your online skin specialist can help you stick with this year:
#1. This year, I will take charge of my health.
Telemedicine platforms like DermatologistOnCall allow patients to take charge of their health by seeing a specialist immediately when a problem arises, rather than waiting for a referral. With our online dermatology visits, patients also have ample space to provide details of their skin condition, ask questions about potential therapies, and express concerns about treatment. After receiving a diagnosis and treatment plan, patients and doctors have an additional thirty days to communicate with each other, allowing patients to let their dermatologist know how new medications are working and any concerning side effects. This kind of interaction is rare, even in traditional doctors’ offices. It allows patients to talk candidly with a professional and get direct answers quickly and conveniently. Since the entire visit, including personalized advice, is contained within the portal, there is always a print record of the encounter. This makes it simple for patients to build and review their medical history.
#2. This year, I will work on my self-confidence.
Chronic skin disorders and hair loss are well-documented to cause low self-esteem and a lack of confidence. Unfortunately, many falsely view these conditions as “just” cosmetic issues rather than life-impacting medical conditions. In many cases, it does require the assistance of a board-certified dermatologist to treat and cure/manage persistent acne, eczema, thinning hair, male pattern baldness, and other chronic issues.
Of course, there is nothing wrong with seeking care for cosmetic questions, either. Glowing skin, strong nails, and thick hair are all signs of a healthy, well-cared-for body. Not only can our providers address questions about specific skin conditions, they are also available to answer any questions you may have about aging skin, best sun protection practices, or other protective measures you can take to protect your dermatologic health.
Working on self-confidence is a long journey that may require the assistance of a therapist or counselor. However, treating underlying dermatologic conditions actively causing emotional damage and physical problems is an excellent first step towards physical and mental health.
#3. This year, I will stop procrastinating.
With online platforms like DermatologistOnCall, there is no need to put off an exam. For a condition like an unusual spot or a growing mole, procrastination can become dangerous or even deadly. An online dermatology visit takes less than ten minutes to complete, and it can be done from anywhere - so there is no excuse.
If you don’t already have a dermatologist, getting care is no problem. Rather than searching for a “dermatologist near me” and waiting from weeks to months for an appointment, start an online visit and select “first available dermatologist” or choose a doctor from the list that fits your needs.
#4. This year, I will improve my time management skills.
Is your calendar already jam-packed two weeks into the new year? You’re not alone. Even if you’re not leaving your home office, a back-to-back schedule of Zoom meetings is still daunting. With new health precautions, a simple visit to the doctor’s office can take significantly more time than ever before and come with the potential for coronavirus exposure.
For patients seeking dermatology care, no appointment is needed. The DermatologistOnCall platform is asynchronous - meaning you can start your visit whenever and wherever you want - no video required.
#5. This year, I will invest in myself.
Spending time and money on the proper care for your skin, hair, and nails is a worthwhile investment. Your skin is the largest organ in your body and your first line of defense against infection and illness. More than a vanity spend, ensuring that it is in the healthiest condition possible is insurance in your overall health. Beyond all the physical good your skin does for you, feeling comfortable in your own skin is also vital to your mental well being.
Many patients spend years trying to find the right combination of products to treat their dermatologic issues or simply resign themselves to years of discomfort. For $95 and 10 minutes, a board-certified dermatologist will review your condition and provide expert advice (and prescriptions if needed) on how to look and feel your best. You deserve to feel great about yourself; our dermatologists are here to help.