Telehealth: What to Know
Date: 05/29/20
The COVID-19 epidemic has brought many changes to Louisiana, and one of those changes is increased access to healthcare services through “telehealth”—a way to see you doctor by computer or by phone. As telehealth becomes more widely available across our state, we want to make sure Louisiana Healthcare Connections members know what it is, how to use it, and why it’s a great benefit.
Telehealth lets you visit with your doctor - from anywhere you have phone or internet service.
Telehealth allows you to get non-emergency medical care from your doctor by phone or by computer, no matter where you are. It is a simple way to get treatment for common conditions like colds and the flu, sore throats, pink eye, rashes, and more. You can also use it for follow-up visits and to discuss medication refills with your doctor.
A telehealth visit is just like a “regular” doctor’s appointment. Your physician will talk with you about your symptoms, create a care plan with you, and prescribe any medications you may need. Your prescriptions will be sent to your pharmacy of record, just like always.
Remember: Emergency conditions like heart attacks and strokes, broken bones, and other serious issues that require immediate, hands-on attention should be treated in person.
Telehealth can be a convenient way to get the care you need.
There are many benefits to using telehealth instead of seeing your doctor in person. You can see your doctor from home and avoid the need for time-off from work or childcare. Other benefits include:
- Improved access to medical care for people who live in rural or remote places
- Reduced need for transportation to and from non-emergency medical appointments
- Live, interactive communication with your physician
Get started with telehealth.
As a Louisiana Healthcare Connections member, you get full coverage for telehealth visits with your physician! To get started, call your doctor and ask if he or she offers telehealth services. Your doctor should be able to provide you with the information you need for getting the care you need, from the comfort of your home.
Need a mobile device to start using telehealth? As a member, you can get a free SafeLink wireless phone that will provide you with the cellular and data services needed to access telehealth. Click here to learn more about getting a SafeLink phone.
Not sure who your doctor is, or need to change doctors? We can help. Log into your personalized Secure Member Portal, or call us at 1-866-595-8133, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
More questions about telehealth? These Frequently Asked Questions may help:
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is care given by a medical professional either by phone or by internet. To find out if your doctor offers telehealth visits, call your doctor’s office. Your doctor will be able to provide you with all the information you need to prepare for a telehealth visit.
Is telehealth simple to use?
If you have internet access and know how to use a computer or an app on your smartphone then, chances are, telehealth is a tool you will be able to easily use.
What happens during a telehealth visit?
A telehealth visit is much like an in-person doctor’s appointment. You and your doctor will talk about your health and the reasons for your visit, and you’ll be given a diagnosis and care plan. If medication is needed, your doctor will send your prescription to your pharmacy, just like in a “regular” visit.
When can I use telehealth?
You can use telehealth for everything from the common cold to post-surgical follow-up. Things like migraines, acne, and mental health counseling can also be treated through telehealth. Your doctor’s office can give you more information about what kinds of telehealth visits they offer and what conditions are most appropriate for those visits.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel my telehealth visit?
It is important to let your doctor know as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel your visit. Your doctor’s office can give you instructions on how to reschedule or cancel your telehealth visit.
Does Louisiana Healthcare Connections cover telehealth visits?
Yes. There is no copay or costs associated with a telehealth visit.