Frequently Asked Questions
What is telemedicine/telehealth?
Telemedicine has been traditionally defined as the practice of medicine at a distance using videoconferencing, computer, and communications technologies. The terms, telehealth and e-health were later coined in an attempt to include allied health, distance education, and Internet applications. Our definition of telemedicine incorporates telehealth and e-health concepts and includes any use of electronic means to extend health care services and health sciences education to points of need in a timely manner.
What are the benefits of telemedicine/telehealth?
The two major general benefits of telemedicine/telehealth are improved access to specialty care and patient convenience. Our experience has demonstrated several other real benefits:
Improved patient compliance
Improved continuity of care
Decreased patient travel time
Decreased travel time for physicians who would otherwise travel to remote sites for visits and/or clinics
Referring providers learn more about specialties by being more involved in consults.
Is there any additional cost to the patient for using telemedicine?
No. The appointment is billed the same as seeing the specialist in person.
Is there any additional cost or paperwork for the primary care provider?
No. Billing and record-keeping for the visit are handled by the specialist's office.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Your primary care provider will schedule your appointment via his/her local telemedicine coordinator or directly through the Telemedicine Center by calling 1-800-816-3859.
