1.5 minute read
With the number of COVID-19 cases rising, our hospitals and healthcare facilities are overwhelmed with phone calls and in-person visits. One option your health plan may provide is telemedicine or telehealth services. Telemedicine may be a viable solution to help lessen the burden on healthcare facilities and staff, while still providing individuals with the care they need during this time.
What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine is a form of technology-based communication that allows a patient and a doctor to communicate without being at the same physical location. The patient would usually communicate from their home through a live video, audio, or patient data transfer system. The doctor would be able to perform a medical evaluation, diagnosis, and suggest treatment options.
How can telemedicine be beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Since the symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to the flu, allergies, or a cold, it can be difficult to diagnose yourself without being tested. People who suspect they have COVID-19 are being asked to contact their doctor first. With hospitals and healthcare facilities being inundated with calls and requests for testing, telemedicine may be another viable option to get connected to care quicker. A doctor may be able to virtually assess your symptoms and ask screening questions to determine if they would recommend you need COVID-19 testing. This option may be most beneficial for those who are at higher risk or have lower immune systems. They can receive the care they need in the safety of their own homes.
Do all health plans offer telemedicine?
Employers should contact their broker/consultant or their health insurance company to see if their plan offers telemedicine.
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Additional Resource:
This blog is intended to be a compilation of information and resources pulled from federal, state and local agencies. This is not intended to be legal advice. For up to the minute information and guidance on COVID-19, please follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health organizations.