Need to see the doctor? Virtual visits can help save time and money

Time is a valuable commodity for busy families, and health insurers are taking notice, offering plan participants the option of telemedicine for many common health issues. Services like UnitedHealthcare’s “Virtual Visits” are covered by most employer-sponsored medical plans and are available to patients at any time of day via a mobile device or computer.

Telemedicine has been around in various forms for a few years, yet the proliferation of mobile devices and high-speed data connections are making it easier for anyone to talk to a doctor using live audio and video technology.

“For the busy employee getting ready for work, taking kids to school and finding time to have dinner as a family, telemedicine is a convenient way to access medical care quickly,” said Junior Harewood, vice president of key accounts for UnitedHealthcare of Georgia. “Employers offering benefits like this can witness the value through happier, healthier employees spending less time away from work.”

Patients typically use a mobile device or a computer equipped with camera and sound to access virtual visits. The patient then logs into a care provider’s secure mobile app or website. Once connected via live video and sound, the physician consultation is much like an in-person visit. The physician will ask questions, make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment when appropriate.

Doctors can diagnose and treat many non-emergency medical conditions and even write a prescription. The visits are an efficient use of time for both patient and doctor, and the cost of a virtual visit is typically lower than that of a visit to a doctor’s office, urgent-care center or emergency room.

Once an online appointment is complete, patients have access to a visit summary they can give their primary care physician to ensure the information becomes part of their permanent medical record.

It’s important to note that virtual visits are good for common conditions like allergies, bronchitis, coughs, diarrhea, fever and pinkeye; however, sometimes an in-person diagnosis by the doctor is necessary. Orthopedic injuries like broken bones or sprains are not diagnosed over a computer. Patients with cancer or other complex conditions, and those with chronic conditions should still see their physician in person for care. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should call 911 and seek appropriate emergency medical assistance.

Learn more about UnitedHealthcare Virtual Visits at www.uhc.com/individual-and-family/member-resources/health-care-tools/virtual-visits.