Blogs

Big Tree Medical: Your partner through open enrollment Open enrollment season is here, and as you begin to evaluate your health insurance options, consider how Big Tree Medical could improve your health care experience. With rising premiums, copays, and deductibles, managing your health can feel daunting almost like you can’t afford to get sick. If you’re not satisfied with your current health insurance, Big Tree Medical is here to be your ideal partner. We provide quick access to care when you need it most, all for a low, predictable cost that shields you from unpredictable and high expenses. Our transformative healthcare model Direct Primary Care (DPC) is at the heart of how we deliver superior care while lowering costs. Join us and be part of this innovative approach to health care.

Nurse Practitioners vs. Doctors: Understanding the Role of NPs in Primary Care Did you know that nurse practitioners (NPs) are not “mini-doctors”? This is one of the common misconceptions about NPs in healthcare. In reality, nurse practitioners are highly skilled professionals with advanced education and training that allows them to deliver primary care. In fact, NPs can serve as primary care providers, managing a wide range of patient needs, from treating acute illnesses to managing chronic diseases.  If you've ever wondered whether you should see a nurse practitioner or a doctor, or are confused about the differences in their roles, this article is here to clear up the confusion. Understanding the differences in their education, scope of practice, and the care they provide can help you feel more confident about your healthcare choices.

Flu vs. Common Cold: How to Tell the Difference & When to Call Us As the weather changes and flu season kicks in, it can be tough to tell if you're dealing with the flu or just a common cold. Both illnesses share similar symptoms, but knowing the difference can help you get the right treatment and recover faster. At Big Tree Medical , we’re here to support your health every step of the way—whether it's answering your questions on Spruce or providing care when you need it most. Symptoms: Flu vs. Common Cold Though flu and cold symptoms often overlap, there are key differences to help you determine which illness you might have: Common Cold Symptoms Runny or stuffy nose Sneezing Sore throat Mild cough Mild fatigue Low-grade fever (sometimes) Colds tend to develop gradually, and symptoms are generally mild, improving within a few days to a week. You can often manage a cold with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies. Flu Symptoms High fever (usually 100.4°F or higher) Sudden onset of fatigue or body aches Headaches Dry cough Sore throat Chills and sweats Muscle or body aches Shortness of breath (sometimes) Flu symptoms come on quickly and are typically more intense than cold symptoms. If you suspect you have the flu, it’s important to act quickly, especially if you’re at higher risk for complications. Recommended Treatment: Flu vs. Cold The treatment for the flu and a common cold varies depending on the severity of your symptoms and health status. For the Common Cold: Rest and hydration: Allow your body to recover by getting plenty of sleep and drinking fluids. Over-the-counter medications: Decongestants, pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), nasal saline spray or rinse, and cough syrups can help manage symptoms. Humidifier or steam: To soothe nasal passages and relieve a stuffy nose. Since colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics won’t help. The best course of action is to let it run its course while managing your symptoms. For the Flu:  Antiviral medication: If diagnosed within the first 48 hours, antiviral drugs like Tamiflu can help shorten the duration of the flu and reduce its severity. Stay home and rest: Flu can be contagious for several days, so stay home, rest, and avoid contact with others. Fluids and pain relief: Hydration and over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate fever, headache, and muscle aches. If you're experiencing severe symptoms or are at higher risk for flu complications, such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, or those with chronic conditions, it's important to seek medical advice.

Virtual vs. In-Person Visits: Choosing What’s Best for You In today's healthcare landscape, the choice between virtual and in-person visits has become more important than ever. At Big Tree Medical, we understand that each patient's needs are unique, which is why we offer flexible options tailored to fit your lifestyle and healthcare requirements. What are Virtual and In-Person Visits? Virtual Visits: Virtual visits, also known as telehealth or telemedicine appointments, allow you to consult with your healthcare provider remotely. Through our partnership with the Spruce app, you can conveniently connect with your personal care team via video chat or text messaging, 24/7 (availability varies by state). This option is ideal for managing chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, discussing mental health concerns, obtaining prescription refills, and addressing acute issues such as urinary tract infections or flu symptoms. In-Person Visits: In-person visits involve physically visiting one of our clinics. This option is necessary for procedures that require physical examination, vaccinations, blood draws, or any hands-on medical attention. It provides a more traditional approach to healthcare delivery where face-to-face interaction with your provider is crucial.