Telehealth is enabling access to healthcare while helping to flatten the curve during this challenging time.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many of us to change the way we go about our daily life. From the way we go to school or work, to the way we get groceries, we’re staying indoors, keeping our distance, and changing our daily routines.
We’re learning that social distancing is helping to contain the spread. So how do we keep that distance while still getting the treatment we need?
Telehealth. This option can help patients get treatment for a variety of ailments, while helping to free up doctors needed on the frontlines.
How does telehealth work?
Telehealth works just like a typical office visit and aids in providing treatment in real-time. Typically done via video chat on a smartphone, tablet, or computer, the patient can show and explain symptoms to a doctor. During the call, direction on next steps can be provided.
With the goal of helping to limit the spread of COVID-19, telehealth can aid in symptom diagnosis while helping to maintain the practice of social distancing when hospital care isn’t necessary.
There are a variety of services that a member can receive from participating providers. This can range from a wellness check-up for a cough or fever, to a counseling call for mental health and substance abuse issues.
Can telehealth diagnose COVID-19?
Health-care providers can’t diagnose a coronavirus infection during a telehealth visit. However, they can offer self-care tips, as well as educate members about when they need to go to a hospital.
How do I find a telehealth provider?
Wellfleet Student members can easily find a provider by visiting their school’s page on Wellfleetstudent.com. Once there, click on “Locate a provider” under “Find health professionals.”
Another way to quickly get access to a health professional is through Nurseline. By calling 1-800-634-7629, student members are connected to a registered nurse within seconds, and can get the help they need 24 hours a day.
What if I need assistance for mental health?
Student members on the Cigna network can access personal and confidential video-based mental health and substance use care.
Scheduling is simple. Just enter your school name in the search box on WellfleetStudent.com, then click on the Cigna PPO link under the “Locate a Doctor/Hospital/Pharmacy”. Once there, enter your zip code and select “Virtual Counselor” and “Continue as Guest” under “Doctor by Type”. Then call to make your appointment with your selected provider.
Following the call, the provider will give the student information on how to set up the video-based session for their appointment.
For those that may not be comfortable with video chat or if the matter is urgent, Wellfleet Student offers its CareConnect service. This service, if available at your school, provides student members immediate access to licensed professionals 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to help manage their mental health and substance abuse issues.
Student members can connect with a counselor immediately by calling 1-888-857-5462.
How much do the services cost?
Due to the current pandemic, Wellfleet is waiving out-of-pocket costs for all COVID-19 testing and treatment until further notice. We will waive all co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance. Similar to a preventative visit, like your annual physical, you’ll have no out-of-pocket costs for your treatment. This applies to plans underwritten by Wellfleet Insurance carriers.
If student members need to utilize telehealth for any other testing or treatments, their typical co-pays and deductibles apply.
If you have any questions, Wellfleet has a dedicated Coronavirus hotline: (833) 343-5338. Hours are Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
