Post-Winter Break Telemedicine Chronicles

It’s time for #TelemedicineTuesday!

Last week was a bit quiet, as expected due to the vacation, but we’re back in full swing this week.

I’ve already seen 2 cases of bed bug bites after returning from vacation. (Makes me itch just to write that). My advice is to keep vacation laundry in a laundry room or mud room, if that’s feasible, and unpack straight into the washing machine and wash with hot water. If there are items that can’t tolerate washing, alternatively, you can put them in the dryer on high for 20 minutes.

I’ve also seen a bunch of finger and toe infections this week, and ingrown toenails. Try to get your kids not to pick at those hangnails or ingrown toenails. If you see an infection starting, take a photo so you know what it looked like at the beginning (and I Love photos in Telemedicine visits), soak in warm water and apply antibacterial ointment.

Also, Rare Disease Day is coming up in February 28th, and I just wanted to take a moment to appreciate our amazing Allied Docs whose years and years of pediatric training make it possible to diagnose that rare “zebra” case amongst all of the common “horses” that we see.

I suffer from a rare genetic disease called Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), which has gotten worse as I’ve gotten older and is the reason I had to make the transition for face to face pediatric care to pediatric Telemedicine.

But remember, even though I may be behind a screen, you’re still getting my 20+ years of experience as a board-certified pediatrician.

Although it might be tempting to go to Urgent Care, you will never be sure who you will see there. Most Urgent Cares (except PM Pediatrics and the rare Northwell Pediatric Urgent care) don’t have pediatricians working there.

Remember, when it comes to after-hours care, #ThinkTelemedicine first and let’s figure out what is best for your child!

-Dr. Z