What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine is health care that is done through the video feature of your cell phone or home computer. MPCP is currently using Zoom, Google Duo, FaceTime, Skype and other apps to connect with patients. With these features, you can see your provider and your provider can see you while you talk together.

Why is MPCP using telemedicine?

During this time of coronavirus, telemedicine is a way for us to give you medical care up close but from a safe distance. It lets us keep in touch with our patients, manage ongoing health issues, and address new concerns. Telemedicine also helps people get care in their own homes, decreasing the number who need to go to the emergency room or the hospital.

How can my doctor really know what’s wrong if I don’t see him or her in person?

Your doctor will listen to your symptoms and ask questions, just as if you were in one of our exam rooms. Using video, your doctor will be able to see things that will help make a diagnosis. Those two things work surprisingly well much of the time. But if there is a concern at the end of your telemedicine visit that something is still unclear, your doctor will have you come into the office in as safe a way as possible for a face-to-face evaluation.

What equipment do I need to do a telemedicine visit?

You just need your smartphone, an iPad, or a home computer with a camera and microphone. If you don’t have any of those things, we can simply talk with you by telephone instead.

Can I get a prescription filled from the visit?

Yes, your provider can send any necessary prescriptions to your pharmacy electronically. If you need blood tests, X-rays or other tests, your provider will arrange for you to get them safely.

How do I schedule a telemedicine visit?

You can simply call your MPCP office to schedule a telemedicine visit. If you prefer a particular video platform, just let the scheduler know when you make your appointment. Otherwise, a medical assistant will call you before your appointment to help you connect for your televisit. You may also be advised to collect your medication bottles, gather information such as your blood sugar or blood pressure logs, and to take your temperature or weigh yourself prior to your visit.

Will my insurance cover the visit?

Yes, insurance companies are encouraging doctors to connect with their patients through telemedicine.