South Cook News

This telehealth visit is as easy as sending an email

From online grocery shopping to movie streaming and remote learning, the digital age has proven one thing: There’s nothing quite as convenient as conducting day-to-day life from the comfort of home. And when you’re not feeling well, you even have the option of getting care virtually – with a video visit or by messaging a provider.

Many are familiar with video visits, where you meet with a telehealth provider over video to discuss your symptoms. But e-visits, or quick questionnaires that are sent via message to a provider, are another convenient option and one that doesn’t require you to be on camera.

“E-visits are especially helpful for minor health concerns or situations you’re already familiar with, such as bladder infections or needing a birth control refill,” says Mandy Fawcett, a telehealth nurse practitioner at Aurora Health Care. “They’re similar to sending an email or a text message and are a great tool for getting a treatment plan in place right away.”

Here’s what you need to know about these convenient virtual e-visits:

• They’re available 24/7, and you’ll get a response within one hour. These visits can be a time-saving, cost-effective alternative to visiting immediate or urgent care.
• They’re billed to your insurance. E-visits are also available for Medicare and Medicaid patients.
• They can be used for a variety of common concerns, including cold and COVID symptoms. Newly added concerns include anxiety and depression, birth control refills, erectile dysfunction, kids’ head lice and headaches.

“Our goal is to make health care more accessible, whether we’re meeting patients in person or through their computer or mobile device,” says Fawcett. “At the end of the day, we’re helping people get care when – and where – they need it.”

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