Telehealth During COVID-19
Telehealth options offer a safe and convenient option for getting healthcare services that can be achieved remotely. These services may be useful for people with COVID-19 or other health conditions.
What is Telehealth or Telemedicine
Telehealth or telemedicine allows people to attend healthcare appointments using two-way telecommunication technology. Naturally, these remote visits allow for social distancing.
Your doctor can use telehealth platforms to offer virtual appointments. Also there are companies who specialize in offering these types of visits with their own team of doctors, physician assistants and other approved personnel.
Telehealth for COVID-19
Telehealth services are ideal for people with COVID-19 or patients with other health conditions who want to stay safe during the pandemic.
Many telehealth websites offer same day or weekend appointments. For COVID-19, patients can use telemedicine for initial screenings and follow up visits.
During these appointments, you can describe your symptoms or send photos. Providers may provide recommendations on:
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next steps (e.g. is in-person testing necessary)
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how to treat non-emergency symptoms at home
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when to retest
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self isolation and quarantine
Telehealth for Other Health Issues
During the pandemic, telehealth services offer safer appointments for non-COVID patients with other health problems. They can stay home and avoid the risk of exposure.
Patients can either report their symptoms for ongoing needs. They can also have their symptoms monitored remotely using body-sensor devices which send information to their doctor.
Telehealth appointments may be generally used for health offerings such as:
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wellness checkups
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blood pressure control
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nutritional counseling
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getting prescriptions from a doctor
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advice on non-emergency health issues
Finding a Telehealth Provider
See if your doctor offers telehealth appointments. Also, your insurance company may be able to provide you referrals.
You can also look online to find other choices that best fit your needs.
Telehealth Legislation in Connecticut
The state of Connecticut has passed telehealth legislation called “An Act Concerning Telehealth” (Public Act 21-9) from May 10, 2021 to June 30, 2023.
The act enables greater flexibility for telehealth offerings. It also requires insurance coverage for these services. Under this legislation, insurance companies must provide appropriate reimbursement for telehealth visits that are comparable to in-person visits.
Further Reading
How Long Will We be Able to Use Telehealth Services? (ct.gov)