Telehealth
Whether you have an illness, injury or need routine care, we’re here for you. Telehealth visits offer a convenient way for you to see your provider.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth – also known as telemedicine or eHealth – is a convenient way for you to get the care you need, where and when you need it. Through secure online video visits with your provider, you can access high-quality health care from the comfort of your own home. A wide variety of health needs can be addressed through Telehealth, including routine visits, follow-up appointments, post-operation care, medication review and more.
Types of Telehealth
To address all patient needs, Telehealth encompasses a variety of health care options. These include:
- Video Visits: Secure virtual visits with your provider, available in the comfort of your own home.
- Remote Patient Monitoring: A system for remotely monitoring your health data, allowing for improved health management.
- Doctor-to-Doctor: Provider-to-provider communication that allows your care team to consult with specialists in other locations.
How Can Telehealth Help Me?
Telehealth offers many benefits to patients, including:
- Convenience: You can access health care in the comfort of our home, saving you time.
- Provider Access: Through a virtual visit, you’ll be able to benefit from our wide network of highly skilled providers, no matter where you’re located.
- Security: We use HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing technology to protect your privacy and the security of your health information.
- Priority: You can connect with a trusted provider when health concerns arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use Telehealth?
Our Telehealth services are convenient, safe and easy to use, allowing you to get the care you need where and when you need it most.
How do I make a Telehealth appointment?
Contact your provider’s office and let them know you’re interested in a video visit. Your care team will determine whether this type of visit is appropriate for your health needs; if it is, they will help you schedule your appointment and give you instructions for next steps.
If you do not have access to reliable internet or the necessary technology for a video visit, a telephone visit may be arranged instead.
Does insurance cover Telehealth?
Coverage depends on your individual insurance carrier. However, most carriers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, cover some form of Telehealth visits. Contact your provider's office if you have questions about your insurance coverage for Telehealth visits.
Does a Telehealth visit count as a qualified HSA or FSA expense?
Most HSA or FSA programs consider a Telehealth visit a qualified health care expense. Please contact your HSA or FSA program directly to determine if your Telehealth visit will be included as a qualifying expense.
Is the quality of care the same as an in-person visit?
Yes. Decades of research and demonstrations have found Telehealth, in its various forms, to be a safe, convenient and comfortable way to receive health care services.
Can I use Telehealth for my child?
Yes, many pediatric appointments can be held via Telehealth. Please contact your child’s Pediatric Primary Care office to find out if Telehealth is appropriate for your child’s needs and to set up an appointment.
What devices can I use to access my Telehealth appointment?
Depending on the type of appointment you have scheduled, you can access your provider through your phone, computer or tablet.
Which departments offer some sort of Telehealth visits?
Most departments offer some form of Telehealth visits, including (but not limited to):
- Adult Medicine
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Electrophysiology
- Endocrinology
- ENT
- Family Medicine Center
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- OB/GYN
- Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
- Pain Management
- Plastic Surgery
- Pulmology
- Urology
Are interpreter services available in Telehealth appointments?
Yes. If you or a member of your family need interpreting services, be sure to let the scheduler know when making your appointment, and note your language preferences. This also applies to members of our deaf community.
Can I get prescribed medication or get a prescription refill through Telehealth?
Yes. Providers have access to your electronic medical record, and as with office visits, can electronically order many prescriptions based on your needs.
Can my family member or caretaker participate in my visit with me?
Yes, those who participate in your care may be present during your visit.
Are Telehealth visits private and secure?
Yes. We use technology that, by law, must include HIPAA-compliant security methods to protect the privacy and security of your health information. We also recommend that you find a quiet, private place to have your Telehealth visit to for additional privacy.
Does cancelling my Telehealth appointment affect my right to future care or treatment?
No, you will not be penalized from receiving further care if you cancel your visit. Please call your provider’s office if you need to cancel or reschedule your visit.
Will the information from my Telehealth visit be included in my medical record?
Yes – your provider’s notes will be entered into your record, just like they would be in an in-person visit. Like your other medical records, you have right to access your provider’s visit notes. These can be found in MyChart; if you do not already have an account, you can register here.
What if my condition requires an in-person visit?
If your provider determines that you need to be seen in-person, the office staff will work with you to find a convenient time for you to come in.
Contact & Tech Support
If you have questions about your appointment or need technical assistance, please contact your provider’s office.