BREVARD COVID-19 UPDATE: Health First Medical Group Now Holding More Than 1,000 Virtual Visits Daily
By Space Coast Daily // April 10, 2020
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Virtual Visits are popular option for patients seeking routine medical care
Health First recently updated its visitor policy for patients who are COVID-19 positive, waiting for COVID-19 test results, or in negative pressure rooms
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Virtual Visits are a hit with patients and providers alike, and with 280 participating doctors, Health First Medical Group is now holding more than 1,000 Virtual Visits daily.
Health First also recently updated its visitor policy for patients who are COVID-19 positive, waiting for COVID-19 test results, or in negative pressure rooms.
No visitors are permitted for these patients, though exceptions may be approved. Family, friends and loved ones are encouraged to use electronic devices and applications (apps) to connect with patients (i.e., smartphones, tablets, FaceTime, Skype, etc.).
With healthcare providers and government officials urging the public to practice social distancing and stay at home, Virtual Visits are a popular option for patients seeking routine medical care.
Health First Medical Group recently launched Virtual Visits for many different types of patient visits – chronic care, urgent care, wellness and more. Patients can keep almost all of their normal office visits, including things like management of diabetes.
As the COVID-19 public health crisis continues, it’s served as a valuable tool for those who don’t want to venture out into the community and instead receive non-emergent care from the comfort of their own homes.
“We can figure out much more virtually than any of us ever thought,” Dr. Gerda Maissel, President and Chief Medical Officer, Health First Medical Group, said of being able to see patients via video.
“Patients love them. More than 90% of our providers have been trained, which means about 280 providers are offering Virtual Visits in all specialties and in primary care.”
Related Story:Health First President & CEO Steve Johnson: Social Distancing Critical, We Will Get Through COVID-19 Together
Insurance companies usually cover the cost of these visits with the same copay as an in-office visit. But for Health First Health Plans members, all Virtual Visit copays and cost shares are being waived during this worldwide pandemic to help ease some of their financial burdens.
The Virtual Visits haven’t just been an outlet to receive care – but a psychological boost for all involved.
“In these unsettling times, these moments remind us that no matter how difficult the situation is, we are blessed to be in this profession of caring and caregiving,” Dr. Visa said.
Virtual Visits can be scheduled seven days a week between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Patients should call Health First Medical Group Central Provider Scheduling at 321-434-3131 to set up one.
CLICK HERE for full details about Health First’s Virtual Visits and Visitor Policy.
CLICK HERE FOR BREVARD COUNTY NEWS
