Virtual GP consultation facilitates life saving diagnosis

Summary

One of our Healix Healthcare Trust members accessed YourHealth247, our virtual GP service provided by Teladoc Health, when they were experiencing breathlessness.

The responding GP suspected a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by blood clots in the lungs. Understanding the urgency of the situation, the GP advised immediate attendance to Accident and Emergency (A&E) and provided consultation notes for the patient to present at the local hospital.

Challenge

To accurately diagnose the patient's condition remotely and ensure timely intervention.

The GP conducted a thorough virtual examination and detailed history-taking. Recognising the urgency of the symptoms, the GP quickly identified the possibility of a pulmonary embolism and recommended they seek immediate intervention. They provided comprehensive consultation notes to the patient, which equipped them with essential information to share with the treating doctors in A&E.

Approach

Upon presentation to A&E with the consultation notes, the patient's suspicion of pulmonary embolism was confirmed.

The provision of the consultation notes prompted A&E to conduct a D-dimer test, which revealed blood clots in both lungs. The proactive measures taken by the virtual GP ensured timely, accurate diagnosis and enabled immediate intervention, potentially averting severe complications.

Outcome

Thanks to quick virtual healthcare access, the member received timely treatment.

This case underscores the critical role of virtual healthcare services in facilitating early detection and management of serious medical conditions, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes.

Fantastic service with YourHealth247

I just wanted to thank your GP for advising me to go to A&E after my consultation, and for their amazing diagnostic skills. It was only because I had the Healix YourHealth247 consultation notes that A&E did a D-dimer blood test. It is such a relief for me to know what is causing my breathlessness finally, and to be able to have treatment.

Healthcare Trust Member