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The other day, Toby had a terrible-horrible-no-good-very-bad cold (plus, a hacking cough). But the last thing I wanted to do was bundle everyone up and walk half a mile in the snow to the doctor’s office. Plus, you end up waiting for the appointment with a bunch of other sniffly kids…
So, instead, we cuddled in bed and talked to a fantastic doctor on my laptop.
Have you heard of Doctor On Demand? They provide video visits with board-certified physicians, doctorate-level psychologists, and lactation consultants (YES!!). I was initially skeptical — would it really work to have a doctor’s visit over a laptop? But I had heard great things from friends and was curious to try it.
How it works: You can download their free app, or log onto their site. Doctors are available every day of the year. Visits start at $40 and are covered by many insurance plans and employers, and their physicians are able to prescribe a wide range of prescription drugs.
We had our virtual appointment with Dr. Aditi Joshi. She was warm and reassuring, and asked us all about Toby’s symptoms. It felt good to be able to talk to her face-to-face, and she even made jokes with Toby.
Of course, Doctor On Demand doesn’t replace all doctor’s visits — when Anton crashed on his scooter, we rushed him straight to the emergency room. But for run-of-the-mill, non-emergency issues (think: cold, flu, rashes, sore throat, sinus infections, upset stomach…), we are psyched to be able to see a board-certified physician on my phone or laptop.
I also have to say, years ago, when I was suffering from postpartum depression, the thought of finding a psychiatrist or psychologist, getting a babysitter, taking a cab through the city and sitting in a waiting room felt totally overwhelming and almost impossible. Doctor On Demand would have made all the difference.
After the appointment — Dr. Joshi said all was fine and recommended fluids — I made Toby the special drink that my mom always made us when we were sick: orange juice with sugar around the rim. Little bunny.
We are so grateful for this service! Thanks so much, Doctor On Demand.
Bonus for all readers: Use code CUPOFJO to receive one free doctor visit.
(Photos by Belathée Photography for Cup of Jo. This post is sponsored by Doctor on Demand, a service we were thrilled to discover. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cup of Jo.)
