A First-Time Telemedicine User Is Sold on the Power of Virtual Care

“I can’t tell you the peace of mind this service provided.”

64-year-old Vince Poirier of Albany has always been a guy on the go. Before retiring five years ago, he traveled extensively for work, and still was actively involved in all three of his daughters’ lives, always present at school functions and sporting events. Despite his active lifestyle, Poirier says, “I almost never got sick.”

When the COVID-19 crisis hit, Vince took every precaution to avoid catching the disease. He practiced strict social distancing and stocked up on all the essentials.

“I was prepared to be home for a long period of time.”

An avid cook, Poirier says he didn’t mind staying home and spending lots of time in the kitchen. That was, until he noticed a small infection brewing under his cuticle. At first he brushed it off, but the infection got worse and became red, painful, and swollen.  

He mentioned the infection to one of his daughters, who recommended he see a doctor, virtually. A quick search of the CDPHP website showed he had access to ER Anywhere, a virtual emergency medicine app available to members 24/7.

“I had never used telemedicine before so I was a bit skeptical, but I really didn’t want to leave the house. I decided to give it a shot and was thoroughly impressed.”

Within a few minutes, the provider diagnosed the problem and called in a prescription to a nearby pharmacy. After the call ended, Vince picked up his prescription and was well on his way to feeling better. He was even more impressed when the provider called him back a couple days later to see how he was doing.

“I can’t tell you the peace of mind this service provided.”

“At almost 65 years old, I am more susceptible to COVID-19, so I really didn’t want to leave the house. The doctor was decisive in her diagnoses, and the antibiotic she prescribed completely kicked the infection out of my system.”

Poirier says the added convenience, coupled with increased affordability, makes telemedicine a great option for him moving forward.

“Health care costs have gotten completely out of control. I think this is a great move toward improving the affordability of health care in our community and our country.” For the latest COVID-19 news and resources for CDPHP members, visit our coronavirus information and resource page.