Virtual Care Options for Kids: A Convenient Way to Access Healthcare Without Leaving Home
Hey Moms! Maria here from Fun 4 Charlotte Kids. As parents, we know how stressful it can be when our little ones aren't feeling well. Whether it's a runny nose, a cough, or something more concerning, the thought of dragging our sick kids to the doctor or urgent care can make the situation feel even more overwhelming. That's why I want to share some fantastic virtual care options for kids that make healthcare more accessible, convenient, and less stressful — all from the comfort of your home.
I recently had to use one of these virtual care options for my son when he wasn't feeling well. The experience was so easy and reassuring, and the best part? I didn't have to leave the house! Let me walk you through some great ways to get your child the care they need, without the hassle.
For minor illnesses like allergies, pink eye, skin issues, or colds, Urgent Care Video Visits are an excellent option. Whether you're at home or on the go, this service allows you to connect with a doctor face-to-face without needing an appointment or leaving your location. It's available 24/7 for children of all ages.
I love how easy and flexible this option is — we were able to skip the waiting room and get the care we needed from the comfort of our couch. If you're unsure whether an in-person visit is necessary, this video option is a great first step!
Pediatric eVisit: Get a Care Plan Within 24 Hours
If your child is dealing with a minor condition and you don't want to leave the house, the Pediatric eVisit option is perfect for Atrium Health Levine Children's patients! It's available 24/7 for kids ages 0-12. Here's how it works:
- Send your child's symptoms: Securely submit your child's information to the pediatric provider about their condition.
- Receive a care plan: Within 24 hours, your child's pediatrician (or another provider in your practice) will respond with a personalized care plan to guide you on what steps to take next.
- Prescription if needed: If necessary, the provider will call in a prescription, so you don't have to go anywhere.
I used this recently when my son was feeling under the weather, and it was incredibly convenient. Instead of rushing out to a doctor's office with a sick child, I was able to get a clear plan of action from the comfort of our home. It was such a relief knowing exactly what to do!
Nurse Chat: Message a Pediatric Nurse for Instant Advice
Sometimes, all you need is a quick answer or guidance to help calm your nerves when your child isn't feeling well. The Nurse Chat feature lets existing Atrium Health Levine Children's patients send secure messages directly to a pediatric nurse. It's available every day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can quickly ask for advice on how to care for your child and get instant feedback.
Whether you're wondering if a fever requires a visit to urgent care or if a rash needs to be looked at, a pediatric nurse will give you the advice you need to help make the best decision for your child's health.
When You Need More: Urgent and Emergency Care
While virtual care is fantastic for many minor conditions, there are times when your child might need more immediate or in-person care. Thankfully, Atrium Health Levine Children's offers several options for urgent and emergency care:
- Urgent Care: If your child has a non-urgent issue but still needs medical attention, there are walk-in urgent care centers available 7 days a week, with extended hours. You can even reserve a spot online to save time! These centers treat conditions like sore throats, earaches, bronchitis, and flu.
- Emergency Care: For serious or life-threatening conditions, emergency rooms are available 24/7. Two locations are designed specifically for children, ensuring that your child gets the most specialized care possible.
In some cases, it may be hard to know whether your child's situation requires urgent or emergency care. If you're unsure, you can always have a secure video visit with an emergency medicine specialist. This service helps you decide whether your child should visit an emergency room or if a different level of care is more appropriate.
