Is a virtual visit right for me?

You may have heard a lot about virtual visits, also known as telehealth or telemedicine. CarePlus members who find it difficult or impossible to see their  primary care physician (PCP) or specialists in person can easily receive quality care for a variety of common conditions from their healthcare providers over the phone or video chat.

Some common conditions that can be evaluated and addressed through virtual visits, include:

• Allergies
• Diarrhea
• Depression and anxiety
• Rashes or insect bites
• Sore throat, cold, and flu

Still have questions? The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) created an easy-to-read page called Basics of Telehealth.

If you have an emergency, such as a life-threatening injury, illness, or major trauma, please call 911 or go to your nearest ER. During a mental health crisis, connect with crisis counselors by calling or texting 988 or chatting virtually at 988LifeLine.org,

Getting ready for a successful virtual visit

A virtual visit may seem overwhelming the first time, but it is very similar to a regular, in-person visit. The main difference is that it’s over the phone or video chat. We want you to feel comfortable and prepared before your visit.

Here are some suggestions to help you prepare¹:

• Schedule an appointment. Contact your healthcare provider to confirm that they offer telehealth services and schedule an appointment. Ask how you will receive instructions to connect with your provider on the day and time of your appointment. If your doctor does not offer telehealth, CarePlus members can use our Find a Doctor tool to search for providers who offer telehealth services. Providers who have reported they offer telehealth will display a practice focus of “Virtual Care – Audio/Visual”. (You may change your PCP at any time and ask them to refer you to specialists who offer telehealth.)
• Test your technology prior to the visit. Check your text messages, email, or other communications for appointment instructions. Someone from your provider’s office may be able to help you connect early or send you a test link before your appointment to confirm that you can connect.
• Write down important information. Prior to your virtual visit, write down your symptoms or condition(s), medication you take, your temperature and weight, and any questions or concerns to discuss with your doctor.  Be prepared to write down important information you and your doctor discuss.

Sources

¹ “Preparing for a virtual visit,” Health Resources & Services Administration, last accessed August 28, 2024.

This service may not be offered by all in-network plan providers. Check directly with your provider about the availability of telehealth services, or you can also visit our website at careplushealthplans.com/physician-finder to access our online, searchable directory. Please refer to your evidence of coverage for additional details on what your plan may cover or other rules that may apply.