The world is changing rapidly, especially when it comes to how we consume health care services. Throughout the era of COVID-19, many people have been advised to remain home and isolate themselves from others to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
From the way patients meet with their doctors to the regularity of in-person visits, health care systems are adopting new ways of providing care during the pandemic. One major way hospitals are adjusting is through the expansion of telemedicine and virtual care opportunities for patients. The University of Maryland Medical System is equipped to offer a range of telemedicine services based on your particular needs.
Telemedicine and Virtual Care: Getting Started
Telemedicine appointments allow patients to interact with their primary care physician or specialist from the comfort of home, giving patients the opportunity to create meaningful relationships with their providers from a remote location.
Setting up a telemedicine appointment with your care provider has never been easier. Secure, sanctioned telemedicine visits are conducted via Zoom, a video conferencing app. When it’s time for a virtual care visit, patients enter a virtual “waiting room,” confirm their identity and begin the appointment at the specified time.
After the appointment, billing proceeds in the same manner as an in-person visit. For any billing-related questions, check with your insurance provider, as many have waived telemedicine fees for members in light of the pandemic.
“Telemedicine provides an opportunity to bring people closer together at a time of physical separation,” said Todd J. Crocco, MD, FACEP, vice president of the Telemedicine & Access Center at the University of Maryland Medical System and interim chief clinical officer at the University of Maryland Medical Center. “There’s no need to be apprehensive about this new model of care. In fact, telemedicine can provide new levels of convenience and comfort in medical care. By embracing telemedicine, patients can look forward to relaxed and productive encounters with their physicians.”
To learn more about telemedicine and how to use the technology, see UMMS’ “Let’s Talk About Health” webinar.
Best Uses for Telemedicine
The University of Maryland Medical System has many options to assist in remote and virtual care. A few clicks or a quick call to your provider’s office can enable you to meet with your physician to discuss a range of services, including but not limited to:
- Routine or regular check-ups
- Renewal of medications and prescriptions
- Review of diagnostic tests or screening results
- Referral and scheduling with specialists
- Pre- or post-operation or procedure care
In addition, a range of medical services, such as behavioral health, pain management, pulmonary care and more can be reviewed or diagnosed via telemedicine visits. Speak to your physician for specific information related to your conditions or symptoms.
Remember: MyPortfolio allows patients to access health information securely and conveniently whenever you have access to the internet.
