Let’s talk telehealth: Our experts are answering common questions.

Health care is more essential than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. And because medical pros are going above and beyond to keep you safe, it’s also more electronic. 

HAP has always offered 24/7 telehealth. But now, more doctors are offering their own virtual visits. That means you might be able to see your primary care or behavioral health doctor from a computer, phone or tablet. 

Questions about telehealth? HAP is here. We asked our experts to answer common questions, like… 

How can I use telehealth? 

Call your doctor and ask for a virtual visit. If possible, they’ll set an appointment time. A staff member will give you directions. 

You can have a telehealth visit over the phone or using a computer.  

If your doctor doesn’t have telehealth, you can use our virtual services. Through our partnership with AmWell®, licensed and board-certified doctors are available 24/7. Here’s how to get started.

What can I use telehealth for? 

While it’s up to each provider, telehealth is often used for: 

• Annual wellness visits/routine preventive visits
• Consults with specialists
• Follow-up visits
• Sharing test results 
• Managing medication/requesting prescription refills
• Managing chronic diseases, like diabetes, asthma, COPD, heart failure, hyperlipidemia and hypertension
• Treating flu, cold and allergy symptoms, like fevers, coughs and sore throats
• Treating migraines or other headaches
• Assessing minor injuries, like sprains, strains and burns
• Assessing rashes and other skin problems
• Addressing urinary tract pain
• Smoking cessation
• Lifestyle and nutrition counseling
• Mental health concerns
• New parent and baby questions

You may also use telehealth if you have COVID-19 symptoms. That way, a doctor can assess you more safely.  

What can I NOT use telehealth for?

If you’re not sure if telehealth is a good option, ask. You’ll need to be seen face-to-face for:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Stroke symptoms
• Cardiac symptoms
• Serious injuries
• Excessive bleeding
• Procedures
• Sensitive examinations and procedures, like gynecological issues
• Abdominal pain
• Eye injuries/pain

For significant health concerns, go directly to urgent care or the emergency room.

Why should I use telehealth? 

Telehealth puts you in touch with top docs, from the comfort of home. It’s convenient. And it often offers more flexible appointment options. Plus, with HAP, services are available 24/7. So even if you can’t see your PCP, you can tap into hundreds of doctors using AmWell®. 

Last but not least… telehealth is safe. It lowers your risk of coming in contact with contagious conditions, like COVID-19 or the flu. 

HAP member exclusive: All cost-sharing is waived for HAP individual, fully-insured group, Medicare, Medicaid and MI Health Link members using telehealth services through January 21, 2021, even if the service is not related to COVID-19.

In an age where everything has gone electronic, telehealth is an innovative benefit. And as we stop the spread of the coronavirus, it’s integral. But please know, with respect to the pandemic, patients are safe at in-person appointments. Health care providers are following strict handwashing and social distancing protocols, and exam rooms and waiting areas are being cleaned thoroughly.

For more, read our blog post: Getting care in a COVID-world? Here’s what you can expect.