Hoag has launched a remote way for patients to reach a doctor without stepping
foot into the hospital.
The hospital’s “telehealth” program promises to connect
clients with Hoag’s primary and specialty care physicians through
phone or video visits. The hospital said video visits are being conducted
using the popular Zoom platform, and patients should call their doctor
to find out if such appointments available.
“Hoag is proud to provide the continuity of care our community has
come to expect – even during this time of global crisis,” said
Robert T. Braithwaite, president and CEO of Hoag, in a statement. “Our patients can continue
to ‘see’ their trusted clinician to maintain their optimal
health and communicate with them directly.”
Hoag points out the telehealth options are best for non-emergency care
and for patients with chronic medical conditions (diabetes and high blood pressure), and patients who are continuing specialized
care for acute illnesses (heart problems, gastrointestinal disturbances
and cancer care). So, call the ER or 9-1-1 if your symptoms are more urgent.
For Medicare or Medicare Advantage patients, telehealth visits, including
telephone visits and video visits, are covered for any condition. Commercial
HMO and PPO coverage will vary by plan.
Those patients who want to access virtual care at Hoag should first check
with their insurance companies with questions about coverage.
Visit the
Orange County Register to view the original article.