Slocum-Dickson Medical Group is pleased to announce that
during this time of social distancing and extra precautionary measures, most of
our providers will be able to offer Telehealth services.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth allows you to use two-way video communication to
participate in a virtual visit with your medical provider. You can do this on your PC or mobile device
from the comfort and security of your own home allowing you to get the care you
need while still following social distancing recommendations.
Do I need to be a
patient of Slocum-Dickson to use this service?
Currently, Telehealth is being used primarily for established patients but it may be used for new patients at the discretion of the Provider.
If I already have an
appointment scheduled can I have a virtual visit instead?
Yes, if you have a method of two-way video communication we
may be able to convert your visit into a Telehealth visit. Please keep in mind that this is done at the
discretion of your provider and not all visit types are suitable for
Telehealth. Due to the social distancing
recommendations surrounding the current pandemic, our offices are actively
reviewing schedules for appointments that may be able to be conducted via
Telehealth.
Can any type of visit
be conducted using Telehealth?
Unfortunately not all visit types lend themselves to
Telehealth. Your provider will use his
or her discretion to decide if adequate care can be provided to you via
Telehealth. The majority of our
Providers are using this service, but not all, so please call and speak to your
provider’s office.
What technology or
equipment do I need to participate in a Telehealth visit?
In order to participate in a telehealth visit you need a two-way video communication application such as; Doxy.me, Skype, Face Time, Zoom, What’s App, etc. that you can view from a mobile device or PC. Please keep in mind that we are not able to provide technical assistance regarding these applications. We encourage you to visit the application’s website for instructions regarding installation and troubleshooting. If you are on a mobile device, be sure to have your cellular data turned on.
What is the process
for a Telehealth appointment?
You may be contacted by registration staff prior to your
appointment to verify your insurance and demographic information. Your provider’s office staff will contact you
just prior to your appointment to ensure that your device is connected to the
application that is being used. The
staff member will also ask for your verbal consent to proceed with the
appointment using the Telehealth method.
Once you and your provider are connected, your appointment will begin.
Does my insurance cover a Telehealth visit?
During this time of the Coronavirus Pandemic, most insurances are covering Telehealth visits. The following have confirmed coverage: Medicare, Medicaid, Excellus, MVP, Aetna, Empire, UHC, and Workers’ Compensation and No Fault (established patients). If you have questions regarding coverage, please contact your insurance provider.
Do I need to pay a
co-pay for this type of visit?
We will not collect a co-pay from you at the time of your
virtual visit. A majority of insurance companies are waving patient out of
pocket expenses during the time of the Coronavirus pandemic; however, this may
vary according to plan. If your plan
does require a co-pay we bill you after your visit.