During the coronavirus pandemic, telemedicine can increase access to health care at a time when many patients, like older adults, are being advised to stay home. Keeping potentially infected people out of crowded waiting rooms and away from health care providers such as doctors, nurses, physician assistants and others can reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 further.

This week, the Trump administration announced expanded Medicare telehealth coverage to allow beneficiaries to receive a wider range of health care services without having to travel to a health facility. Clinicians will be reimbursed for providing telehealth services to beneficiaries throughout the U.S.

There are limits to telemedicine. In emergencies such as severe injuries or if you have shortness of breath or experience chest pain or pressure, or when a hands-on physical exam or procedure is necessary, patients will still need to receive in-person care.

Wellmark Members now have $0 cost share from home.  Until June 16, 2020, Wellmark will cover the member cost share for all virtual visits with your personal doctor and other in-network providers.  You and your covered dependents can get medical; and behavioral health care at home at no cost to you with phone or video visits.  Please visit DoctorOnDemand.com for instructions. 

We also have a treasure in our community with Dr. Jon Van De Veer at ExemplarCare –  https://www.exemplar.care  – Please check out his website to learn more about him and the services that he can offer.  I feel that his services are a perfect fit for someone that understands the benefits of a HDHP (high deductible health plan).  The first several thousand dollars are yours to pay before you have met your maximum out of pocket expenses.  He can provide quality one on one medical advice and care at an affordable price.  When you are paying your own out of pocket expenses, you become a better consumer and can price shop things such as MRIs, etc.  Check him out.  This is no way recommending that you forego health insurance, but this is a way for you to maximize your dollars and your time.

If you have questions or want help please contact me at Debbie.Sears@Searsinsurance.info or call me at 515-285-6766.