Telemedicine is quickly becoming the new standard for communicating with your health care provider.
UPMC offers telemedicine options for routine doctor visits and specialized visits, such as meeting with a spine expert.
All you need to meet with your doctor is a computer, tablet, or mobile device that connects to the internet.
Why Should I Use Telemedicine?
Telemedicine and telehealth visits are a cost- and time-effective way to meet with your doctor without leaving your home or office.
Other reasons to use telehealth visits include:
- Privacy – You may be more comfortable discussing pain or personal details in your home than in the doctor’s office.
- Convenience – Although your doctor cannot use the specialized tools and equipment in their office, they can view your gait and movement through the webcam. They can also thoroughly discuss your symptoms and pain to decide if you need additional tests or imaging.
- Timesaving – If your doctor orders imaging or tests, your online visit may save you the time and cost of traveling to the doctor’s office twice.
Studies show that telehealth visits help increase access to the health care system. In a study published by the National Institutes of Health in 2021, 95% of participants said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment they received from their telehealth visits. Of that group, 62% said their telehealth visit was the same as or better than a traditional in-person visit.
Spinal Telemedicine
There are many ways you can use telemedicine to receive spine care services at UPMC.
For instance:
- If you have new back pain, you can request a telemedicine visit with your primary care provider to discuss your condition. If the PCP feels your condition is suitable for a virtual visit, your appointment will be confirmed. Your doctor also may refer you to physical therapy, send you for testing or imaging, or ask you to visit in person so that they can do a physical examination.
- When you have a spine condition, you usually meet with your doctor several times to check on the progress of your condition or recovery from treatment. Telemedicine can reduce how often you need to travel to the doctor’s office for follow-up to imaging or physical therapy.
- Because some spine issues can be resolved without surgery, telehealth is an easy and convenient way to receive physical therapy directions and advice. Meeting with rehabilitation professionals, such as a physiatrist or physical therapist, over telehealth services allows another layer of coordination with your doctor. They can share your progress with your doctor just as in an in-person visit.
- The telehealth option allows you to schedule convenient appointments with your doctor.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-06-26.
