Telehealth vs. In-Person Care: When to Use Each & Why Both Matter

Rachael Bakelman
Dec 14, 2025
2 min read

Healthcare should fit your life — not the other way around. At Integrative Health Co., we believe the best care model blends Telehealth and in-person visits, giving patients flexibility without sacrificing quality.

Understanding when to use each option helps you get the right care, at the right time, in the most efficient way possible.

What Is Telehealth?

Telehealth allows you to connect with your provider through secure video, phone, or messaging — all from the comfort of your home. It’s designed to make healthcare accessible, convenient, and timely, especially for routine and follow-up care.

Telehealth is ideal for:

Cold, flu, and viral symptoms
Urinary tract infection symptoms
Skin concerns (rashes, acne, eczema)
Anxiety, depression, and mental health follow-ups
Medication refills and treatment check-ins
Hormone optimization and chronic condition management
Lab review and care plan adjustments

Why patients choose telehealth

No travel or waiting rooms
Faster access to care
Easy follow-ups
Less time off work
Care that fits busy schedules

When combined with a membership-based primary care model, telehealth allows for consistent access without per-visit fees or rushed appointments.

When In-Person Care Is Necessary

While Telehealth is highly effective, some situations require a hands-on exam to ensure accuracy and safety.

In-person visits are best for:

Annual physical exams
New or worsening chest pain or shortness of breath
Abdominal pain requiring a physical exam
Injuries, joint pain, or swelling
Procedures such as injections or wound care
Complex neurological symptoms
Certain gynecologic or urologic concerns

In-person care allows for physical exams, diagnostics, and procedures that cannot be done virtually.

Why a Hybrid Model Works Best

Healthcare doesn’t have to be all virtual or all in-person. The most effective approach combines both.

Telehealth offers:

✔ Convenience✔ Speed✔ Ongoing access

In-person care provides:

✔ Physical evaluation✔ Diagnostic precision✔ Procedural treatment

Together, they create a complete, integrative care experience that adapts to your needs.

How We Decide What’s Right for You

At Integrative Health Co., we help guide that decision. Many concerns can start with a virtual visit, and if an in-person evaluation is needed, we coordinate next steps seamlessly. Your safety, comfort, and outcomes always come first.