By Alex White, columnist ~ “Small Towns, Big Potential”
I recently penned a column about the need for a fundamental, long-term embrace of telehealth in Page County. In lieu of recent local stories like a nearby VA center’s coming problems with patient access, I can’t help but stand by the kinds of programs that I mentioned (including ATLAS, one that specifically serves veterans).
That being said, my focus on the long game caused me to fail on one important point: I completely left out some of the present steps that our local healthcare system is taking in using telehealth to combat COVID-19.
I again extend my thanks to the reader who pointed out my error. More importantly, we all have a lot to be thankful for in our local healthcare system; we should be recognizing (and thanking) them now more than ever. In the meantime, I would like to highlight some of the wonderful steps that they have taken.
Official information can be found at this link, and my summary of important points is below.
Hopefully readers can use this telehealth information as they face COVID-19 in their lives:
1. Valley Health is now offering telehealth visits in ALL of their practices
2. Virtual visits have ZERO COPAY ($0.00)
3. All you need is a mobile device (iPhone, Android, iPad, tablet, etc.)
4. To set up an appointment, contact your usual provider by phone
5. Urgent care is included, simply check in at vhurgentcare.com
THE BIG TAKEAWAY: Valley Health has made it easier—and cheaper—than ever to access the care you need without leaving your home. If you need these resources, do NOT hesitate to use them. These are innovations that can improve lives, and we have Valley Health to thank.
Again, see this link for more info or enjoy this video and recording if you prefer audio/visual.
Additionally, this page has a wealth of updates on all Valley Health COVID-19 resources.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING RESPIRATORY ILLNESS AND/OR MAY HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO COVID-19, CALL THE DEDICATED HOTLINE AT 540-539-0380.
Most importantly, stay safe, social distance, and don’t forget to thank our healthcare workers!
Great follow up!