Page 10 - Scene Magazine January 2023 48-01
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Health Scene
BY CYNTHIA CARPENTER, CMP
What is virtual care and how does it work?
Virtual care is a growing field in the healthcare industry that helps patients who want or need to manage their health from home.
One of the major benefits and rea- sons for its popularity is affordability and convenience. Not having to travel to your appointment saves you time and resources. This is especially true for those who need help with transportation when traveling to and from appoint- ments.
Virtual care options can include scheduled video appointments with your provider and on-demand video visits for immediate care needs.
Despite its growing popularity, there are still aspects of virtual care that make some patients feel uneasy.
Here are five common concerns about virtual care:
1) I need to have a physical exam in order to receive proper care.
Some patients feel their provider can’t help them without a physical exam. Although some conditions re- quire a physical exam, there are plenty that don’t. Common conditions that can be treated through virtual care include: • Cough
• Pink eye
• Sore throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea and constipation • And more
If you haven’t used your Bronson MyChart account lately, log in and explore the many convenient features and virtual care options.
For many minor urgent conditions, simply knowing your medical histo- ry and symptoms is enough for your provider to diagnose your condition without a physical exam.
Virtual care is also a simple and effective way to provide follow-up ap- pointments, which usually don’t require any physical exams.
2) My health information won’t be secure.
Virtual care platforms are designed with enhanced security in order to be HIPAA-compliant. Enhanced securi- ty measures include encryption and meeting IDs to ensure your video visit is private and secure.
3) It’s more expensive.
Virtual care has never been more affordable than it is today. The cost
is similar to an office visit. For exact coverage details and costs, check with your health insurance provider. Many insurance plans cover the cost of video and e-visits, including Medicare and Medicaid.
4) It’s only for urgent needs.
Although virtual care is very helpful when it comes to immediate care needs, it can be beneficial in many other ways. It can help you manage chronic condi- tions, medications, and aid in overall preventative care. Imagine getting health and wellness education from your provider without an office visit.
Without the barrier of traveling to see your provider, you may even find that you are communicating with your provider more often. This can lead to more personalized and connected care while also saving you time and money.
5) I didn’t know it was an option.
Current Bronson patients can access primary care and most specialty care providers through a Scheduled Video Visit. Established patients can also take advantage of E-Visits, which allows you to send messages to your provider via Bronson MyChart. Once your provider has received your request for medical advice, they will review your case and respond within two business days or sooner.
Need immediate care? You can re- quest an On Demand Video Visit at your convenience any time between 7am- 7pm, daily to be connected to a Bronson immediate care provider. You don’t need to be an established patient or have a MyChart account for an On-Demand Video Visit.
Not sure which care option is right for you? We’re here to help! To find the care that’s right for you visit bronson- health.com/needcarenow.
5 Myths and Facts About Virtual Care
10 SCENE 4701 I MEN IN BUSINESS
Bronson MyChart
New tools are always being
created to help ensure you receive proper care at the right time. If you haven’t used your Bronson MyChart account lately, log in and explore the many convenient features and virtual care options. If you don’t have an account, sign up now.