Healthy travels: How older adults benefit from virtual healthcare

Travel is a wonderful way for older adults to visit loved ones and explore new places. According to a recent AARP survey, 65% of Americans over 50 plan to travel over the next year. While exploring the world is exciting, it can also present health challenges, especially for older adults. Virtual healthcare offers a solution to ensure peace of mind.

“We believe everyone should feel confident to go on vacation or visit family while still feeling the support of a care team they trust,” said Dr. Neil Patel, Chief Health Officer at Patina. “At Patina, we are easy to access by phone, text or video – so we’re here for you wherever you are!”

With virtual healthcare services, older adults can stay connected with their primary care providers and specialists even when they’re away from home. All of us at Patina strive to support our patients wherever they are – even when they are traveling for short out-of-state trips or vacations – so there are no interruptions in the care they receive.  

Staying connected to your healthcare team

Continuity of care is crucial for travelers, whether it’s just a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. With Patina’s support, patients can stay connected to their trusted care team remotely via video or phone, ensuring their healthcare needs are always met.

“Using the Patina mobile or web app, patients can easily check in with their care team for quick consultations or to discuss symptoms, eliminating interruptions in care,” says Dr. Alexandra Ristow, Patina’s lead primary care practitioner. “Telehealth bridges the gap between patients and their providers, offering prompt support no matter where you are.”

Marc Pinsky, a Patina patient, says, "When I travel for work or to visit family, the Patina app makes it so easy to send photos to my care team, check status, or video chat with my primary care practitioner when needed. I could never afford concierge care, but the direct connection makes me feel like I have it – even while on the road.”

Easier management of chronic conditions

For seniors managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, virtual healthcare helps maintain consistency in care even when daily routines change while traveling. The Patina app helps people stay on track and remain in touch, including medication reminders and check-ins to monitor symptoms as needed – giving patients peace of mind and easing stress, wherever they are. Patients can log in from a computer, or from a tablet or smart phone.

“The Patina app keeps me connected no matter where I travel. I can quickly manage my medications, monitor my blood pressure, and keep my family updated on my health,” says Dave Hansel, a Patina patient who treasures his twice-a-year trips to Canada with his brothers.

Timely help in emergencies or illness

In the event of illness, injury or even an emergency, virtual healthcare can offer support in unfamiliar places.

“Knowing who to contact when you’re sick, even virtually, can relieve anxiety for travelers,” Dr. Ristow says. “Virtual care provides immediate support for minor issues and helps patients find nearby clinics or urgent care centers when in-person treatment is required.”

Affordable, convenient, and accessible

Virtual healthcare is often covered by insurance, ensuring affordable, convenient access to your trusted team even while traveling - without any out-of-pocket costs.

"Many insurance providers now cover telehealth, making virtual healthcare both accessible and affordable. Some of these are more transactional in nature, connecting you to a clinician you’ve never met before. But because virtual care is one of the ways we interact with our patients, they don’t need to request a visit with an unknown provider,” says Dr. Neil. “Patina patients can connect with us from anywhere, whether they’re traveling or unable to visit an office. It’s a simple way to bring trusted care to you."

Freedom to explore with confidence

Virtual care empowers older adults to travel freely, offering peace of mind no matter the destination. Whether you’re visiting loved ones across the country or exploring new places, staying connected with your healthcare team means you can focus on making memories instead of worrying about health concerns.

“Older adults deserve the opportunity to explore and enjoy new experiences without fearing they’ll fall behind on their health,” says Dr. Ristow. “With virtual care, we ensure continuity of care, for everything from scheduled appointments or unexpected issues. There’s so much we can handle remotely, from anywhere in the world, to keep patients supported and secure.”

A few tips for safe travels with virtual healthcare

To make the most of your healthcare while on-the-go, consider these tips:

• Check with your provider: Before you leave, talk to your healthcare provider about accessing virtual care and what to do in case of an emergency.
  
  
• Update your medications: Ensure you have an adequate supply of medications and carry a list of your current prescriptions and dosages.
  
  
• Know your health coverage: Make sure you understand your telehealth benefits and any travel-related healthcare options covered by your insurance.
  
  
• Stay organized with apps: Download and familiarize yourself with any health apps you’ll need on the go. 

Virtual healthcare empowers older adults to travel confidently, knowing their trusted care team is just a click away. At Patina, we’re always here to support our patients from the comfort of home or wherever they are. Safe travels!

Are you looking for a provider who supports the whole person, including condition management and more? Patina is a unique medical practice that supports your total health and well-being. Please share your contact information and our team will reach out within a business day to answer any questions or schedule your first appointment.