PCC offers our patients an easy and safe way of connecting with us through telehealth visits. With telehealth, PCC is able to provide remote appointments by phone or video, allowing you to access your care team for a "telehealth" visit. This type of visit allows you to meet with a trusted provider from the comfort and safety of your home. If you have a phone, smartphone, or a computer, you may be able to get convenient telehealth services directly through PCC.
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is an easy and convenient way for you to speak directly with your provider over the phone or via video chat about your health needs. Think about it as a visit to the doctor without having to leave your home, take the bus, find parking, or spend time in our clinic waiting room.
What do I need to get Telehealth services from PCC?
You don't need to be a computer genius with fancy equipment to get telehealth services. If you have a phone, smartphone, computer or tablet, you might already be eligible for telehealth! A device with a camera is preferable, but we'll work with the equipment you have. Remember, our provider will decide which kind of appointment is best for you given your unique health needs and will let you know in advance what type of visit you will have.
Are telehealth visits available to everyone?
PCC is offering telehealth visits for clinical, dental, and behavioral health needs. You must be an existing PCC patient at any of our health centers. Please note that, in some circumstances, your provider may decide that it is preferable to see you in person. If that's the case, our team will work to find you an in-person appointment that's best for you.
How do I get started?
You can get started with telehealth by calling your PCC clinic and requesting a visit. Once you call, we will work with your provider team to schedule the right appointment for your needs. The most common telehealth visits include:
- Diabetes and high blood pressure follow-up appointments (see special instructions below)
- Medication Refills
- Allergies
- Upper Respiratory Infections
- Headache
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Sexual Health
- Behavioral Health and Psychiatry Appointments
- Dental
- Substance Use Treatment
- Financial Counselor
While most common needs can be addressed completely via telehealth, a provider may direct you to the appropriate clinic if you need an in-person follow-up or labs.
What should I expect after I schedule my video telehealth visit?
PCC will send you a pre-visit link to your cell phone and email address from the registration only number 833-412-1918, five days before the scheduled appointment so you have an opportunity to complete your registration information. Please complete the pre-visit questions prior to your visit, including verifying personal information such as address and phone number, social history; and other screening questions.
How much does a telehealth visit cost?
Telehealth visits are billed to your insurer or you the same way as a regular visit to PCC. You’re getting the same quality care, time and attention with your provider during a telehealth visit as you would with an in-person visit.
I don’t have internet access at home and I don’t have a smart phone. Can I still access telehealth?
Yes! While telehealth visits using video provide the best patient experience, people who do not have access to meet with their provider through video can also conduct their telehealth visit through a regular phone call.
Is telehealth safe, secure, and confidential?
Telehealth is a safe and secure way of connecting with your provider online or over the phone. Just like in-person care, your telehealth appointments, messages, and information are protected by privacy rules.
If I have diabetes or high blood pressure (Hypertension), how should I prepare for my telemedicine visit?
If you have diabetes, you should be checking your sugar level (glucose levels) at home before your appointment. Have your glucose levels written down so you can read them to your provider during your visit. Your provider will ask you if it was before or after meals, so that is helpful to write down too.
If you have high blood pressure and have a blood pressure cuff at home, check your pressure prior to the appointment. Write down the blood pressure you get and your provider can tell you when it means. If you do not have a blood pressure cuff at home, you can talk about this during your appointment as to how to get one.
Telehealth Checklist: Getting Ready for your Telehealth Visit
Before you start your telehealth experience, here are some helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit:
- Write down the day and time of your appointment to make sure you are available when your provider calls.
- Find a quiet, private space. Choose a place where you can meet with your provider that is quiet, confidential, and comfortable. This could be a room in your home or somewhere in your building, such as a private meeting room.
- If you are using video, double-check your sound and video. It’s important that you can hear and see your provider during the visit. In order to ensure your visit goes smoothly, test your camera, microphone, and speakers/headphones
- Be prepared for the possibility of technical difficulties. Internet outages and other occurrences happen. Your medical provider is here to support you and will reach out to support and alternate ways to connect.