COVID-19 is changing the way we do everything, including how we take care of our health. Telehealth, or getting advice from health professionals virtually instead of in person, is now becoming mainstream. Good thing—because it’s more important than ever for us to stay home. Many physician clinics are switching to video chat and phone calls to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Studies show that 70% of ER and clinic visits can be replaced by virtual consultations without any impact on care quality, which means that a virtual visit with a health professional can be just as effective as visiting your doctor’s office in person.

This is great news for League members, who can chat live with one of our health professionals. If you need advice or support, chat with our Health Concierge team to get what you need without ever leaving home for things such as mental health support, acute care, COVID-19 symptoms, and finding a primary care physician. 

5 Fast Facts About Telehealth

1. Telehealth is the delivery of care through mobile devices, and is an option for many kinds of healthcare. Telehealth has been traditionally used for mental health services, such as therapy or counseling, but many urgent care centers are encouraging patients to use their telemedicine options instead of coming in. Some hospitals are using virtual platforms to screen and triage patients who might have COVID-19, and others are using the technology just to free up space and personnel.
2. Telehealth helps flatten the curve! Virtual services help keep symptom-free people out of waiting rooms and away from people who are potentially infected with COVID-19.
3. Telehealth is easier than going to the clinic – for you and your doctor’s office. When people have convenient and private access to care right from home, they’re empowered to take ownership of their physical and mental health. It has been shown to reduce wait times for access to specialists in remote parts of Canada by 30-50%. It also gives physicians greater flexibility with their working hours and lessens the burden on our suddenly overwhelmed healthcare system.
4. Telehealth makes healthcare accessible – no matter where you are. About 20% of Americans live in rural areas without easy access to primary care or specialist medical services. Telehealth makes it possible for doctors to care for patients all over the country.
5. Your insurance carrier may cover it. Many insurance carriers now have telehealth offerings in response to COVID-19. Canada Life (in Canada), Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare (in the United States) are all offering coverage for telehealth appointments. If you have questions about your own telehealth coverage, our benefits experts can help. Chat live with League Customer Care to find out.
   

One last thing—we’re here to support you during these stressful times. If you have any concerns about your health or questions about telehealth, you have exclusive access to our Health Concierge team, who are here to help. They’ll take the time to listen, answer your questions and connect you with the right telehealth providers and resources.