Connecting with patients through telemedicine

Published: May 21, 2018 | Updated: November 11, 2021

Technology can get a bad rap for disconnecting us from human interactions. But, perhaps in health care, it can actually bring us closer together. Rachel Alexander, APRN, is a nurse practitioner with Norton eCare — a virtual medicine, or telemedicine, service that allows her to care for patients through video visits. Get to know the person on the other side of the screen when you have a Norton eCare visit.

Did you grow up in Kentucky?

I was born in Louisville and have lived here all of my life. I don’t think I will ever want to live anywhere else!

What led you to the field of nursing?

When I was younger, I thought I wanted to be a pharmacist. I worked in a pharmacy throughout high school, and it just wasn’t the right fit for me; but I knew I wanted to work in the medical field. Nursing allowed me to incorporate every aspect of what I was looking for in a career. I am able to be a caregiver and educator to patients, families and the community.

How did you get into telemedicine?

I have always worked in the urgent care/retail setting. I came across this wonderful opportunity with Norton Healthcare and was fortunate to join Norton eCare when the program began. eCare allows me to provide the same care for minor illnesses that I did in my previous setting and allow the patient more convenience and availability.

As a working mom with young children and a daughter helping an aging parent, I relate to many of my patients when they tell me they don’t have time to care for themselves. Offering care to patients in this manner gives them a little of that much-needed time back.

How are you able to still connect with patients even though you are not in a room with them?

My connection with patients may actually be better through eCare. I think sometimes we forget how important just listening to our patients can be. Through eCare, I am able to completely focus on connecting with my patient.

I think most patients would agree: You don’t feel rushed in this setting and have time to ask and answer questions.

What’s life like outside of work?

My husband, Andrew, and I have two children: Natalie, 5, and Jack, 2. Our family time is everything! Time is moving so quickly since we had the kids, so we do our best to take it day by day and try to remember to enjoy every minute (even the tantrums and sleepless nights!).