Televisits at Crisp Regional

Crisp Regional is currently offering Televisits, allowing you to speak with a doctor and share any questions or concerns you have, without having to go to your doctor’s office or hospital in person. Our goal is to make seeing a doctor convenient and accessible during this time.

WHAT IS TELEMEDICINE?

Telemedicine is a way for health care professionals to communicate with patients virtually through electronic communication. Doctors can diagnose and treat patients without the patient needing to make an in-person visit.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

There are several advantages that telemedicine has to offer.

• Improved access – Telemedicine allows us to provide health care services to patients even in rural areas.
• Cost efficient – Telemedicine often allows for reduced travel, shorter hospital stays, and more efficient care, which can reduce costs.
• Quality care – You can receive care through telemedicine at the same level of quality as an in-person doctor’s visit.
• Evaluating possible COVID-19 patients – Allowing patients with minor symptoms of COVID-19 to consult with a doctor remotely will help to decrease the spread of the virus. Through a Televisit, a doctor can evaluate a patient’s symptoms and determine whether they need to be treated at the hospital, or whether they can stay home and recover.
• Preventing overcrowding in hospitals – Using telemedicine to provide regular healthcare and to monitor chronic conditions provides more in-person space and equipment for those who need medical care for COVID-19.

WHAT IS A TELEVISIT LIKE?

A Televisit with a Crisp Regional Doctor may take place over the phone or through a web-camera. If you are needing to speak to your doctor about COVID-19 symptoms, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Have your symptoms and other important info on hand. It is a good idea to write down your symptoms as well as general health information such as allergies, so that you have quick answers ready to questions your doctor may ask.
• Answer your doctor’s questions as clearly and concisely as possible. Certain guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been put in place to help doctors determine whether patients are at risk for developing complications from COVID-19, and whether their symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe. Your doctor may ask questions related to your recent travels or your medical history.
• Keep the call short. During this time, doctors will become busier as they care for both in-person and telemedicine patients. Make sure you fully communicate your concerns, but do not prolong the call with non-essential questions. This will ensure that doctors are able to care for as many people as possible.

If you are experiencing minor COVID-19 symptoms, call the Crisp Regional COVID-19 hotline: (229) 276-3068