Services

 

Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to limit exposure to and slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, THHC has worked very hard to put new processes in place in order to continue to provide much needed physical and mental health services to those in need. Telemedicine appointments – where a patient meets with a THHC provider by secure video (using a computer, tablet or smart phone) – are available to both new and existing THHC patients. 

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine is a real-time virtual visit with your doctor or other health care provider using secure video and audio connections (computer, tablet or smart phone) to discuss symptoms and medical issues without having to go into the office to see them.  

 What can a telemedicine appointment be used for? Telemedicine appointments can be used if you are experiencing symptoms including cough/congestion, skin rash or infection, back pain, allergies, sinus infections, vomiting, eye issues, feeling anxious or depressed, and more. These appointments can also be used for routine management of chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or heart issues, as well as for wellness visits for routine preventive care. Providers can answer questions about medication, acute and chronic problems. 

What happens during a telemedicine appointment?

If you are an existing THHC patient, your provider will have access to your electronic medical record during the appointment. During a telemedicine appointment, you can receive a diagnosis, learn your treatment options and even get a prescription for medication if needed. If a referral is needed for additional care or testing, or if you need prescription medication, the provider will put in orders needed, then communicate with you on next steps.

How long do telemedicine appointments last?

Telemedicine appointments last as long as it takes you and your provider to have the appropriate discussion. You are given an appointment time to have your discussion with a provider the same as you would with an actual office visit.  Telemedicine appointments save you time because you don’t have to travel to and from the office – you see the doctor right from your own home.  

How much does a telemedicine appointment cost?

We work with each patient’s insurance to coordinate the cost of a visit. Some patients will still have copays. We have a variety of options for those without insurance and assure you that no patient will go without care due to inability to pay.  

Will my health insurance cover the cost of a telemedicine visit?

Particularly in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, all insurance companies have agreed to cover telemedicine. The laws and coverages continue to change. If you have a specific question about your own health insurance plan it may be best to check with them directly about coverage. 

What if I don’t have health insurance?

THHC has affordable self pay (fee for services) options.  We also have self pay payment plans. Please call our office at 216.682.5704 for more specific guidance.

Do I have to be an existing patient of THHC to schedule a telemedicine appointment?

No, THHC offers telemedicine visits to new and existing patients. 

What do I have to do at the time of the appointment?

Prior to your scheduled appointment, make sure the camera and microphone on your device (computer, tablet, smart phone) are turned on, and be prepared to have your appointment in a quiet, private place with good lighting so the provider will be able to see you clearly.  Please make a list ahead of time of any questions or concerns you have so you can be sure to cover everything with the provider during the appointment. 5-10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment, a staff member will call you to confirm your insurance information, collect any payments due and register you for your appointment with your provider. You will receive either a text message (via your smart phone) or an email (via your tablet or computer) that includes a link to the virtual visit with the provider.