What is telehealth or virtual care?
Telehealth or virtual care is a way for you to connect with a provider at a distance using technology. There are various methods of telehealth including phone visits and virtual video visits. These appointments enable you to receive care from a new or regular provider when an in-person visit isn't required or possible. Telehealth appointments can be used for both primary and specialty care.
What are the benefits of telehealth?
Telehealth allows you to save time by avoiding transportation. There is no need to take off time from work, and you can still have access to your physician while social distancing. With more convenient appointment options and better access to care, your health and prescriptions can be better managed.
Is the quality of care the same as an in-person visit?
Yes. These visits allow for thorough evaluations, similar to that of in-person visit. With today’s technology, video visits can be quite detailed and allow the physician to care for you and treat you in much the same way as they would during an office visit. When an in-person examination is needed, the telehealth appointment option will not be offered.
Is the technology hard to use?
Telehealth is designed to make your health care easy, convenient and accessible. Patients are sent instructions including information about how to test and connect your current phone, tablet or desktop in advance. In order to get the most out of your visit, it is important to treat it as you would an in-person visit. Find a quiet, private space and limit distractions so you can have a detailed conversation with your provider. If you have questions in advance of your appointment, contact customer service at 402.559.0700.
Does it cost anything?
Yes, these visits allow for chargeable medical care; however, most visits are covered by insurance. Please contact your insurance provider to see if telehealth is included in your plan.
What can I expect on my telehealth bill?
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a new policy instructing health care providers to bill the "originating site facility charge (Q3014)" for telehealth services. The "originating site" is the location where the health care provider who's conducting your telehealth call physically works. Because of this policy, your telehealth visit will result in two charges: one for the originating site, and one for the health care provider's services.
Are video visit appointments safe?
Yes, virtual video visits are very safe. The privacy of your health information is important to us and is protected by federal and state laws. Nebraska Medicine uses a secure, HIPAA compliant platform to conduct online video visits. At no time are the visits recorded, so your health information is private and protected.
If I don’t have internet access can I still have a video visit?
Internet is required for a video visit; however, the good news is we offer some telehealth appointments by phone too. Call 800.922.0000 to see if an appointment by phone is an option for you.