Get Care Anywhere
It’s that time of year again. Sickness is all around us. But having little ones in school makes it even worse. They’ll inevitably get sick at some point during the long winter months. And then comes the dilemma, do I bring them in to see the doctor? Do I risk having them exposed to something even worse by going into the clinic?
Did you know there’s another option? One that lets you receive care for your kiddo from the comfort of your home? Epic Systems in Verona created an application called Care Anywhere. This application can connect you to a team of health care providers via a virtual visit. The good news? UW Health and UnityPoint Meriter are already using this application. SSM Health offers virtual visits via a questionnaire instead. Regardless of how it’s implemented, virtual visits can be a great option.
What Things Can I Be Seen For?
The answer is it depends upon the health system. But all 3 will treat easily diagnosable conditions like allergies, headaches, the common cold, the flu, urinary tract infections, minor skin problems, and pink eye.
And kudos to UnityPoint Health for going even further to include virtual Behavioral Health Counseling, Breastfeeding Support with an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, and Nutritional Counseling.
How Does It Work?
If your provider is from UW Health and UnityPoint Health, you will use your computer, smartphone, or tablet. The Care Anywhere apps can be found on the Apple App store here (UW Health) and here (UnityPoint Health), and on the Google Play App store here (UW Health) and here (UnityPoint Health).
From there, you open the app, sign up for an account, and then start up a video chat with one of the available providers. It’s pretty simple and takes a lot of the stress of having to go to the clinic out of the equation.
SSM’s process is slightly different. They ask you to fill out an online health interview form. Once submitted, a provider will get back to you within an hour. The response will include a treatment plan, which may include a prescription if necessary. If the prescription is included, you’ll be able to have it sent to the pharmacy of your choice.
What Does It Cost?
\Again, all three systems vary, but the price ranges from $25 – $49 per visit. So it is probably a little more expensive than your typical co-pay for your primary care visit, but some insurance plans will cover part of the cost of care.
What If They Can’t Help Me In A Virtual Visit?
This may happen, but in my opinion, the peace of mind that comes from getting a provider’s take on your medical question is well worth it. Plus, think of all the time and energy you can save in the instances where the virtual visit does solve your concern. So next time your little one is sick, and you’re trying to decide whether to take them into the clinic, give the virtual visits a try!
Before you go, check out some of our previous posts!