By Kristy Warren
As part of our proactive Coronavirus COVID-19 strategy, the Laurel Health Centers (LHC) are launching more virtual telemedicine appointments by phone and video in addition to expanding hours and weekend coverage.
Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to interact with patients virtually using a phone, laptop, computer, or tablet. A virtual visit (televisit) is conducted using audio and video in real-time, similar to video chatting on Facetime or Skype but using a special, secured healthcare platform.
Televisits are available to everyone. To reduce travel and time spent in public places during this pandemic, televisits are encouraged whenever appropriate for healthy patients, those managing chronic conditions, patients with transportation barriers or child / elder care responsibilities, and those considered at higher risk for COVID-19 complications like seniors and the immunocompromised.
Patients do not need to download an app or have special equipment to schedule a televisit with Laurel Health. All that’s needed is an e-mail address and a phone or computer.
If patients have a smartphone or a computer with speakers and a webcam, Laurel can conduct a video chat visit; if patients have a landline or older cell phone, Laurel can conduct the visit over the phone.
“The Laurel Health Centers are offering more telemedicine appointments to ensure you receive the same great care from the comfort of your own home,” explains Lara Jaussi, DO, Chief Clinical Officer for the LHCs. “Providers at all Laurel Health locations are offering in-person, phone, and video consultations to monitor and advise our patients’ health and wellness. The flexibility to see patients at the clinic or at home allows us to care for all our patients while keeping our most vulnerable populations safe.”
Laurel is also expanding its regularly scheduled hours. The LHCs are available 24/7 to answer health questions, review symptoms, direct care, and schedule in-person or telemedicine appointments. For more information about our locations and hours, click here.
Patients who have a question after-hours can simply call their health center office or 1-833-LAURELHC (1-833-528-7354) to be connected to the LHC nurse triage line.
Watch below as Laurel Health Center President and CEO James A. Nobles sits down with WETM-18 News to discuss the benefits of telemedicine appointments in our area.
“All our patients will continue to receive the guidance and care they need whenever they need it,” assures James A. Nobles, LHC President & CEO. “Patients can reach us 24 hours a day by calling their Laurel Health Center, and we are extending hours to better serve our community throughout this pandemic. We ask that all patients experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or who are concerned about a possible exposure continue to call ahead to their health center for advice. By calling ahead, you allow our team time to properly screen your risk, advise your next steps, and prepare for your arrival without the risk of exposing other patients or staff. Together, we can keep our community healthier.”
Televisits are available at all Laurel Health locations, including the Laurel Health Centers, Laurel Behavioral Health and Laurel Pediatrics.
To schedule a telemedicine appointment with us, call your Laurel Health office or 1-833-LAURELHC (1-833-528-7354).
For more information on telemedicine, COVID-19, or the LHCs, stay tuned to our news page or visit us at facebook.com/laurelhc.