Month: August 2024

Pest Control

DIY Pest Control Vs Professional Services – What You Need To Know

Kaden Leonard

When it comes to pest control, DIY methods offer convenience and cost savings. However, they often fall short of delivering the results of professional Treasure Valley Pest Control treatments.

They cannot also address pest problems at the source. This can lead to recurring infestations, and can even cause damage over time.

pest control

Cost

No home or business is immune to the scourge of pest infestation. From a few pesky cockroaches to more serious termite damage, these creatures can cause several issues that are difficult and expensive to deal with. However, there are different ways to approach pest control, including hiring a professional or trying DIY methods. Which is the best choice?

In the short term, DIY pest control is often cheaper than hiring a professional. However, the initial cost of buying premixed gallons of insecticide and all the equipment required to apply it can quickly add up. In addition, homeowners have to factor in the cost of purchasing additional products to repeat treatments or restock products once the initial treatment wears off.

Moreover, the health and safety risks associated with DIY pest control can far outweigh the initial financial savings. If an individual applies insecticides and other DIY pest control products improperly, it can pose a significant risk of harm to human and animal health and the environment. Incorrect application can also render products ineffective, meaning that the homeowner will need to spend even more money to get the job done right.

Another important consideration when evaluating DIY pest control is that the products used by amateurs may not be as effective as those purchased from a licensed exterminator. Professional-grade pest solutions are designed to be more efficient, covering a larger area in less time. Consequently, they tend to be more effective than the consumer-grade products that are typically available at hardware stores.

A further concern when examining DIY pest control is that the initial efforts can lead to an escalation of the problem. For example, if a homeowner attempts to tackle a cockroach infestation but fails to adequately control the issue, the problem may grow out of control and threaten the health and safety of occupants. Delayed professional intervention also allows the pests to breed and spread further, leading to more costly property damage and deterioration.

Despite the apparent drawbacks of DIY pest control, some individuals may choose to use these approaches to manage minor infestations. Homeowners must understand when they should and shouldn’t try to handle these problems on their own, though, and be aware of the limitations and risks involved.

Effectiveness

If you’re looking to save money on pest control, DIY options might seem like a good option. After all, you can buy products that promise to kill everything from ants to bed bugs and do it yourself without the expense of hiring a professional. However, it’s important to understand that there is more to pest control than just spraying a product around your home. The way that you use these products and how they are applied determines a large portion of their effectiveness.

A professional will employ a variety of methods to rid your property of pests, including prevention, exclusion, and monitoring. They will also use integrated pest management practices to limit the use of chemical products. Ultimately, this approach is safer for your family, pets, and the environment. In addition to providing peace of mind, a professional will also offer a guarantee for their services.

When it comes to DIY pest control, the costs associated with purchasing products can add up quickly. In addition to the cost of the products, you’ll also have to factor in the time spent buying and applying them. Many homeowners end up spending more than they bargained for, especially when the DIY method fails to work.

It’s also important to consider the type and severity of the pest problem. DIY methods are typically effective for minor pest issues and preventive maintenance, but may not be enough to deal with severe infestations or those requiring ongoing treatment.

Lastly, it’s important to consider the long-term implications of your chosen solution. For example, if you choose to use natural or organic methods, they can often be more effective than chemical treatments. However, these methods can be more difficult to implement and require more dedication than conventional solutions.

Trying to tackle a pest problem on your own can be very dangerous. Not only are there potential health and safety risks, but it’s also possible that you could miss the root cause of the problem and continue to experience recurrence. Hiring a professional is the safest and most effective way to remove pests from your property once and for all.

Safety

DIY pest control may seem easy, but it can have a host of dangers. First of all, handling chemicals without proper protective gear can cause health problems such as rashes and breathing difficulties. It can also harm children and pets, especially if the chemicals are ingested or come into contact with the skin. Furthermore, improper application and overuse of DIY products can lead to toxic residues lingering in the home, posing long-term health risks for occupants.

Another risk is that inexperienced individuals may not be able to identify and understand the root causes of pest infestations. This can lead to ineffective treatments and incomplete eradication of the problem. In addition, certain pests may require specialized equipment or knowledge that is unavailable to homeowners.

The main benefit of professional pest control is that they are experienced and have the appropriate tools to handle complex infestations. In addition, they take safety measures and practices into consideration when applying treatments. This allows them to deliver superior results while minimizing risks to people and pets.

In addition, they know the best ways to prevent pests from entering a property in the first place and can offer advice on how to avoid future infestations. In contrast, DIY methods often focus on the removal of pests after they have already entered a home, which is not as effective in preventing pests from returning.

DIY methods can be useful for minor pest issues such as a wasp’s nest or ant hill. However, they are not suitable for large or severe infestations. If you have a serious pest issue, hiring a professional can save you time, money, and stress. The decision to choose DIY or professional pest control depends on your preferences, needs, and the severity of the infestation. A thorough inspection is important to determine how bad the pest problem is and whether it requires a DIY or professional approach. Also, it is essential to consider legal restrictions, time constraints, the potential for incomplete eradication of pests, and safety concerns when making your decision.

Time

Attempting DIY pest control often requires significant time commitments, due to the necessary research, purchasing of products, application of treatments, and monitoring. This is especially true when trying to tackle a large or complex infestation. When it comes to pests that are difficult to eradicate, such as bed bugs or termites, repeated DIY attempts may cost homeowners more than hiring a professional from the start.

Professional technicians have the knowledge and expertise to identify pest species, understand their biology and behavior, and implement effective treatment strategies. They can also provide preventive measures such as sealing entry points, reducing pest attractants, and more to help stop an infestation from developing in the first place.

Another advantage of hiring a professional pest control service is that it eliminates the need for multiple treatments. Professionals can get to the root of the problem and eradicate it with one visit, saving homeowners from the frustration of having to repeat their efforts again and again.

The main reason why some people turn to DIY pest control is that it offers them more flexibility when applying treatments. For example, they can use products that are more environmentally friendly if they have concerns about the toxicity of chemical-based solutions. This can be important for individuals who are looking to make greener lifestyle choices or have specific health needs that must be taken into consideration.

Homeowners who attempt DIY pest control may also have less flexibility when it comes to scheduling treatment sessions. This can be an issue if the pests are active at night or during certain seasons, making it more difficult to find times that are convenient for treatments.

In some cases, pests that are not easy to eradicate can quickly grow out of hand, such as a large ant colony or a mouse population that has spread through your attic. This is when it is important to call a professional right away to prevent the situation from getting worse. This can be done by having a pest control expert come and assess the property to look for cracks in the foundation, holes around utility lines, and other places where insects and rodents might enter the home.

Concrete Repair

What Is Concrete Repair and Why Is It Necessary?

Kathleen Herman

Concrete Repair Eau Claire is a way to revitalize existing concrete structures without having to tear them out and replace them. A professional contractor has access to the proper equipment and high-quality materials needed for a successful repair.

Concrete Repair

The durability of the concrete repair material is an important factor in its success. This includes its cracking resistance, permeability and freeze-thaw durability.

Cracks are often the first sign that the structural integrity of concrete is deteriorating. It is important to evaluate the cracks and determine their severity and whether they are dormant or active. Depending on the size and location of the cracks, different repair methods may be used.

When concrete cracks, it is generally a good idea to seal them to prevent ingress of water, oxygen and minerals that can lead to corrosion of the steel reinforcing bar and eventual failure of the concrete structure. Cracks can be sealed using a variety of products such as urethane sealants, epoxy injection and grout. Epoxy injection is a cost effective method that provides a strong structural bond and stops water flow through the cracks. However, it should not be used on cracks that are actively moving.

In general, cracks that are less than 0.3 mm in width and do not interfere with the function of the concrete structure are considered acceptable. However, a qualified and licenced inspector should inspect and diagnose the cracking to classify its severity and identify its cause to determine the appropriate repair method.

Wider cracks are usually a sign of a structural problem and should be repaired as soon as possible. Not only do they detract from the aesthetics of the structure, but they can also allow for the ingress of water, air and minerals which can lead to corrosion of the steel reinforcement and ultimately failure of the concrete structure.

A common solution to this type of damage is to use an overlay. This can be a cost effective solution, provided that the correct overlay is selected and that the concrete is sound to begin with. However, if the overlay is used to cover a bad subbase or poor workmanship, it can simply fail again.

For this reason, it is important to consult a concrete repair specialist to determine the cause of the damage and to ensure that the appropriate solution is implemented. For example, if the cracking is caused by soil movement, it would be a good idea to implement proper compaction techniques during the construction process. In addition, it is important to consider the curing procedures when using overlays as improper curing can result in premature deterioration of the repairs and therefore reduce their life span.

Leaks

Slab leaks, cracks or deterioration in pipes hidden beneath concrete slabs, are common plumbing problems (3 in 7 houses, 2 in 10 units). These can cause serious water damage and foundation issues if left unchecked. Early detection through leak detection techniques by a licensed plumber is essential to avoid costly repairs and structural damage. Look out for warning signs like unusual water sounds or rising water meter readings, and call your local plumber right away.

Slab leaked are often caused by poor installation and inadequate waterproofing of concrete. In addition, natural wear and tear from changing temperatures and pressure can contribute to the problem.

Leaks can occur in any type of building, but they tend to be more problematic in buildings with a concrete foundation. Slab leaks are a particular concern because they can lead to expensive water bills, damaged floors, and even foundation damage.

A slab leak can also have negative health impacts if the plumbing is carrying sewage. The leaking wastewater may leak into the soil and groundwater, which can result in contamination. This can affect drinking water and can even create sinkholes or cause flooding.

One of the most common warning signs is a sudden and unexplained increase in your water bill. This is a sign that water is leaking into the concrete from the surrounding area, which can be very expensive to fix.

Other warning signs include dark stains on your walls, floors or carpeting, which can be caused by a number of factors, including leaks, high water pressure or poor drainage. The best way to prevent these signs is to regularly check and maintain your plumbing, which includes replacing any worn parts.

If you suspect that you have a slab leak, don’t attempt to dig into the concrete to locate the source of the problem. This is a job that should only be done by a licensed professional plumber who uses specialised equipment to identify and pinpoint the location of the leak. This can save you from costly water damage, a lengthy repair process and potentially dangerous hazards like hot water scalding.

Delamination

Concrete is one of the most popular construction materials in use today. It is strong, versatile and easy to maintain. It can be used in a variety of ways from building homes to making sidewalks. While it offers many benefits, there is one drawback that must be addressed – delamination. This occurs when thin layers of the concrete begin to peel away from the surface, and it can be very dangerous if left unchecked.

Concrete deterioration can be caused by a number of things including soil conditions, mix design, overwatering during placement, construction activities and poor maintenance. While these factors can contribute to deterioration, it is often the result of corrosion of the reinforcing steel within the concrete. Ultimately, this can lead to cracking, spalling and delamination.

A successful repair of delamination begins with thorough preparation of the damaged area. This can be accomplished through shotblasting, hydrodemolition or grinding. The goal is to remove all the defective concrete down to a sound base. Once the area is clean, a resurfacing product can be applied to create a new surface.

The best concrete repair materials are formulated with polymers to enhance their bond strength and durability. Ideally, the material is self-consolidating to minimize honeycombing and has good flow to fill forms or cracks easily. It should also have a low water content for freeze-thaw resistance and be chemically resistant if it is exposed to deicing salts, acid or other chemicals.

Before selecting a concrete repair material, you should consider what conditions the repair must withstand, how long the repair is expected to last and what type of installation procedure is required. The materials must have good pumpability, slump, flow and hang / stickiness to allow for a form-and-pour concrete repair, pre-placed aggregate repairs, tremie concrete repairs or trowel-applied vertical and overhead concrete repairs.

If the concrete is being repaired for a traffic bearing area, you should use a high-strength, fast-curing concrete repair mortar that is fiber-reinforced with silica fume and a corrosion inhibitor added. The mortar can be sprayable to cover a large area or troweled for a thicker repair.

Damage

Concrete surfaces are exposed to the elements for extended periods of time, and they can sustain damage if the proper maintenance and repair methods aren’t followed. This is why regular inspection and preventative repair are so important.

Damage to a concrete surface can be caused by seismic activity, structural damage, water infiltration, chemical attack or other factors. Concrete repairs can include patching compromised areas, employing crack fillers and applying protective coatings. It is crucial that the underlying cause of the damage is addressed in the repair process.

A properly repaired concrete surface should be able to resist the elements, accept a deep penetrating sealer and have adequate capacity to withstand the loads expected of it. The choice of repair materials is vital to the successful longevity of a repaired concrete structure.

Chips are easily the most common type of damage to concrete. They can be caused by heavy vehicles driving over the concrete or simply due to the aging of the material. This type of damage can be very costly to fix, and it is essential that you take the necessary precautions to keep the surface protected.

Erosion is another common type of damage to concrete. It happens when the soil surrounding a concrete slab shifts and changes over time, leaving the structure vulnerable to surface cracking. This can be avoided by redirecting water flow and adding a waterproofing concrete sealer.

Corrosion of steel reinforcement is also a common problem for concrete. This can be prevented by using a corrosion inhibitor and patching the affected areas. Other types of damage to concrete include honeycombing, streaking and dusting. These problems can be caused by trapped air, excess moisture and temperature shifts. These can be prevented by utilizing a low alkali cement, controlling moisture and ensuring proper curing.

When hiring a professional for your concrete repair, make sure to ask for a walk-through of the damaged area and get estimates from multiple contractors. This will help you find the best contractor for your particular needs and budget. Choose a company with ample experience and expertise to provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing your repair will be done right the first time.

Landscaping

Four Types of Mulch

Ty Callahan

Mulch Harrisburg PA prevents weeds from growing, helps trees and shrubs retain moisture, and protects them from mower damage and other stresses.

Organic mulches such as wood chips, leaves, and shredded bark decompose and add nutrients to the soil. They require frequent replenishment.

Grass clippings are an excellent source of natural mulch. They can help retain moisture in garden beds, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. They are also a cost-effective way to reduce lawn disposal fees and keep yard waste out of strained landfills.

Mulching with grass clippings is easy and convenient. However, they may not be the best choice for vegetable gardens because they may carry weed seeds or chemical residue from treated lawns.

When using grass clippings as garden mulch, collecting them before the weeds can go to seed is important. This can be done with a bag attachment on your mower or by spreading the clippings and waiting for them to dry before applying them to the garden. This will prevent the spread of weeds and also allows you to use the clippings as a natural fertilizer in the garden once they decompose.

Dried grass clippings also make a great alternative to expensive commercial mulch products. They are easy to find, affordable and offer the same benefits of conventional product. The only drawback to using grass clippings is that they can rot or form a slimy mat if applied to wet soil. To avoid this, spread them out evenly and only apply a light layer.

During the summer, using grass clippings as mulch can help moderate soil temperature and maintain adequate moisture levels in garden beds. Additionally, the clippings can provide up to 25 percent of the nitrogen a lawn requires for healthy growth. Keeping the grass in the garden also helps to reduce thatch, a buildup of undecomposed stems, crowns and runners that accumulate between the soil surface and actively growing turfgrass.

However, if the lawn has been treated with a herbicide, it is best to wait to use the clippings in a vegetable garden until the grass has completely regenerated from the herbicide application. Otherwise, the herbicide residue can carry over to vegetables and damage or kill them. The best option is to wait three to four weeks before mulching with grass clippings in the vegetable garden.

Wood Chips

Wood chips are a specific type of mulch made from chipped or shredded wood. They are an excellent option for garden beds because they suppress weeds, conserve soil moisture, and help moderate the soil temperature by reflecting the sun’s heat instead of absorbing it. They also add a natural element to the landscape and can be used for walkways or to cover muddy spots in outdoor seating areas.

However, before you purchase wood mulch from a nursery or home improvement store, check the quality of the wood. Some wood chips may be treated with chemicals that can negatively impact your garden and could harm the soil if the mulch is not removed regularly. You should choose organic wood mulch if possible to avoid these issues.

You can also make your own mulch from woody debris, such as tree limbs and branches. This is a good way to reduce yard waste that would otherwise end up in landfills, and it can be more eco-friendly than purchasing mulch from a store. Some communities have programs where you can get free yard waste chipping services, and local tree-care firms with chipping equipment are another source of wood chips.

If you use wood chips as mulch, it is best to use the older, dry chips that will last longer and not blow away as easily as the greener, sappy pieces. The wood chips should also be unprocessed, undyed and sourced from sustainable trees.

Although wood chips are not ideal for vegetable gardens because they can temporarily reduce the soil nitrogen levels as they decompose, they do work well for ornamental flower beds. Mulching with wood chips can also prevent soil erosion, but it is important to be aware of the limitations of this method and to replace the wood mulch regularly.

One interesting use of wood chips is as a substrate for growing mushrooms. Mushrooms are rich in nutrients and help cleanse the soil, so this is a useful way to utilize wood chips and create a productive and tasty crop at home.

Leaves

Whether they’re raked up from a garden or collected from curbside bins, a layer of leaves makes an economical and environmentally friendly mulch. When used properly, leaves suppress weeds, reduce soil erosion, and moderate soil temperature changes. They also enrich the soil with organic matter as they decompose, improving its quality and helping it to hold moisture more effectively.

The most important consideration when using leaf mulch is to shred the leaves before spreading them on the garden. This allows them to break down more easily and gives the finished mulch a much more uniform appearance. A lawn mower with a bagging attachment or a hand-held chopper is ideal for this task, but even a regular rake can work just as well. Ideally, the shredded leaves should then be stored in a separate pile or bin from whole leaves for the winter so that they can continue to decompose into humus-rich leaf mold.

Using a leaf mulch that hasn’t been shredded can result in a thick, heavy mat on the ground that can be difficult to work with. It can also harbor weed seeds and create rodent habitats, especially in very thick layers. Whole leaves also tend to clump and suffocate young plants when placed too densely over the soil.

In the spring, leaf mulch can be worked into the garden soil to help with weed control, moisture retention and soil improvement. When topped with compost or other types of organic material, it can be used as a planting medium for vegetable gardens and flower beds.

To increase the amount of nitrogen in a leaf mulch, sprinkle a handful of urea or ammonium nitrate over the top of it about once per month. This will replace the natural nitrogen that is lost as the leaves decompose, allowing them to continue to supply this critical element to the growing plant roots beneath. When used throughout the year, a layer of 2 to 3 inches of leaf mulch can provide many benefits to the garden, including:

Peat Moss

Many gardeners swear by peat moss as a soil amendment and mulch. Its dry, spongy texture holds water and is ideal for absorbing water from rain or irrigation. Its sterile nature means it will not compete with grass, weeds or other plants for nutrients, and it has a slightly acidic nature that is good for many plants. Peat moss is also lightweight and makes for an easy material to haul around for garden or lawn projects.

But it comes with a few environmental concerns, particularly because of how it is harvested. Peat moss is created in cool, moist bogs as sphagnum moss decomposes over time, forming a thick mat that can become quite deep. Bogs are known as carbon sinks, storing massive amounts of carbon that would otherwise be released into the air as greenhouse gases. But when the sphagnum peat is harvested, it releases that carbon back into the air.

Bogs are sensitive to climate change and some are being destroyed as a result of warming temperatures and drought, which is making it difficult for the moss to keep growing. That’s why some conservationists and scientists are calling for a ban on the use of peat moss.

While some horticulturists may still prefer it to other mulch and soil additives, there are several natural alternatives that can be used in its place. Pine bark and compost, for example, can both be used as a substitute for peat moss. They both help prevent soil from becoming too compacted, which allows water and essential nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily.

Other natural options for gardening and lawns include worm castings, sphagnum peat moss (often called PittMoss), vermicast from earthworms, and shredded leaves. All of these are available online and at some garden centers.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, these alternatives are cheaper than peat moss. However, none of them perform as well as peat moss for gardeners, especially when it comes to aerating the soil and retaining moisture. Using these items as substitutes for peat moss will require a bit of experimentation to find the best mix for your gardening or lawn project.

Virtual Urgent Care

Virtual Urgent Care: Immediate Medical Help at Your Fingertips

Ciara Wise

Using a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a good internet connection, patients can get care at their convenience.

Virtual Urgent Care

Medical emergencies like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or choking require an in-person evaluation and cannot be treated via Virtual Urgent Care. For professional help, contact JetMED Mesa  -Virtual Urgent Care Mesa.

Prescriptions can be sent electronically to your local pharmacy for pickup or delivery.

Virtual Urgent Care is a convenient option for health concerns that occur when your doctor’s office is closed or you cannot get an in-person appointment right away. This telehealth service allows you to connect with a health care provider using your computer or mobile device at any time, day or night.

A video visit is a secure, private and confidential way to talk with your health care provider. During the video visit, your health care provider will ask you about your symptoms and evaluate your condition. Then they will develop and implement a treatment plan and prescribe medication, if necessary. Your health care provider will also share your visit information with your primary care provider so they can provide additional care as needed.

To use a Virtual Urgent Care visit, you will need a computer or mobile device with a camera and a reliable internet connection. You will also need a credit or debit card. The cost of a Virtual Urgent Care visit is $129 for Geisinger members, regardless of insurance. You will be able to pay for the visit with a credit or debit card or through your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account.

You can schedule a Virtual Urgent Care visit on the Geisinger website by clicking “Enter the virtual waiting room.” A health care provider will then contact you to complete your urgent care visit. Typically, a visit will last about 15 minutes.

Your Virtual Urgent Care provider will review your symptoms and determine if your problem is an emergency, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, choking, significant bleeding, stroke-related symptoms, poisonings, or thoughts that could result in personal harm to yourself or others. They will also instruct you to go to the nearest emergency department or call 911 if your symptoms are life-threatening.

Your Virtual Urgent Care provider will follow up with you by phone, fax or email after your visit. If they feel that you require further evaluation, they may refer you to your Geisinger Primary Care Physician for an in-person appointment or other health care providers. Your provider will also send your after-visit summary to your MyChart account and alert your primary care team to your Virtual Urgent Care visit, so they can follow up if necessary.

How does Virtual Urgent Care work?

Virtual Urgent Care is an online health consultation service that provides patients with medical advice, diagnoses and treatment options. Visits are conducted via a live video conference with a healthcare professional using a desktop or mobile device. The process is simple, convenient and secure. Virtual urgent care visits can be used for a wide range of minor illnesses and injuries, such as sprains, sinus infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. Visits can also provide reassurance that a minor injury is healing properly, or give guidance on managing chronic medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.

Patients can access the services of Virtual Urgent Care by logging in to their MyChart account and selecting ‘Urgent care’ from the menu. For children age 5 and older, a parent or guardian will need proxy access to their child’s MyChart account in order to schedule a virtual visit. Once the appointment is scheduled, patients will be connected to an available Geisinger provider for a video visit. The patient will then be provided with a recommended treatment plan and any necessary prescriptions.

Virtual visits are a great option during the pandemic, as they allow patients to connect with their healthcare providers without having to drive and spend time in crowded waiting rooms. The service also allows patients to stay home and reduce their exposure to others, helping them avoid illness.

While telehealth has been available for years, its use has become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. The service has been shown to improve the quality of patient care, decrease wait times and reduce overall health system costs. Virtual visits have also been shown to be safe, convenient and effective for patients who need immediate medical attention, such as those suffering from COVID-19 symptoms.

As a result of the increased demand for Virtual Urgent Care, many health insurance plans are now offering the service as an additional benefit. However, it’s important for patients to understand the limitations of this type of visit. This way, they can choose whether or not it is the best option for their specific situation and needs.

What are the benefits of Virtual Urgent Care?

Virtual Urgent Care, or telehealth, allows patients to connect with medical professionals via digital platforms such as video consultations, phone calls, and online chats. These services help individuals who need urgent but non-life-threatening medical assistance. They’re a safe, convenient, and effective alternative to visiting an in-person doctor during the pandemic.

Virtual care is a great way to connect with a doctor during the flu pandemic, and it can also be a valuable tool for employees who don’t have access to traditional health insurance or have high-deductible plans (see Why This Benefit Is Vital for Rural Employees). By eliminating cumbersome in-person visits, virtual appointments provide patients with quick and easy healthcare options that can save them time and money.

In addition, virtual care is a valuable option for employers during the pandemic. As an additional benefit to their employees, virtual visits can help them manage their own health care needs while providing the flexibility to work from home and avoid commuting during peak times of the day. Additionally, incorporating virtual urgent care into an employer’s benefits package can help employees feel confident and comfortable using the service.

During a Virtual Urgent Care visit with Weill Cornell Medicine, an adult or pediatric emergency medicine doctor will meet with you to evaluate your symptoms and provide a personalized treatment plan. This is a perfect solution for non-emergency illnesses and injuries that are not life-threatening, such as ear infections, sinus problems, or minor injuries. The doctor will also order any necessary tests or prescriptions to treat your condition. Afterward, you’ll receive the results and discharge instructions via your Epic MyChart account.

The best part about virtual visits is the convenience they offer to busy individuals. They can attend their appointment at a time and location of their choosing, eliminating the hassle of scheduling an in-person appointment or traveling to and from an urgent care center. Additionally, if they have any questions or concerns following their visit, they can contact the doctor directly with a phone call or email.

As more companies continue to adapt their benefits during the pandemic, virtual urgent care has become a valuable tool for helping employees manage their health and wellness while protecting the company’s bottom line. By offering this service to their employees, companies can help them stay healthy at work and reduce costly absenteeism. With the right preparation and understanding, this innovative technology can be a powerful tool for delivering quality healthcare during the flu pandemic and beyond.

What are the limitations of Virtual Urgent Care?

Virtual urgent care can help patients avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency room during an illness or injury. It also helps to reduce patient frustration over long wait times at traditional doctor’s offices. The flexibility offered by virtual care visits enables medical professionals to better serve their patients, while improving accessibility for those living in rural or underserved areas. A 2022 Commonwealth Fund survey found that telehealth is especially appreciated by physicians, with 82% stating they were “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with the practice of telemedicine.

During a Virtual Urgent Care visit, you can connect with a licensed Geisinger healthcare provider over video to discuss your symptoms and receive treatment. Depending on your symptoms, you may be asked to undergo an examination or diagnostic test before receiving a prescription. Once your visit is complete, you will receive clear instructions and recommendations on what to do next, including when to come back to the clinic for further services.

While a Virtual Urgent Care appointment can be beneficial during many illnesses and injuries, it’s important to understand when a telehealth visit isn’t appropriate. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, choking or significant bleeding, call 911 immediately. You can also visit one of our ConvenientCare walk-in clinics or make an appointment with your primary care doctor to address a non-emergency health concern.

For those who need quick and convenient care for minor illnesses and injuries, Virtual Urgent Care offers real-time access to a board-certified adult or pediatric emergency medicine physician through a secure online meeting. This service can be used on a desktop, tablet or smartphone with an internet connection and is available Monday-Friday from 5pm-10pm (closed holidays). To learn more, please see our FAQs.

To get started, simply click the “Enter virtual waiting room” button below to check in for your telehealth visit. Then, enter your insurance information and choose an available time to talk with a provider. A Geisinger telehealth provider will follow up with you shortly after the check-in to discuss your symptoms and provide a diagnosis.