Telemedicine: Virtual Visits From Home
FOR PATIENTS: COVID-19 UPDATE
In an effort to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus that causes the disease COVID-19, some patients can participate in a live-video telemedicine appointment, also called a virtual visit, with their cardiologist or healthcare provider. The virtual visit allows patients to connect face-to-face in real time without leaving their home. Patients can use a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Maintain your heart health for the future: it is important. We aim to deliver the best heart & vascular care when asking you to physically come to our office for an appointment only when it is necessary, such as imaging studies, labs or procedures needed to diagnose or fight heart disease.
Patients are encouraged to talk with their cardiologist to find out if a virtual visit may be appropriate for their care needs. Please feel free to message us through Patient Portal or call 225-769-0933 for an appointment.
What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine uses smartphones and computer monitors to connect you to physicians or health care providers who are not located near you. You don’t have to travel to get the care you need.
You will be able to see, hear, and talk to your cardiologist or other health care professionals at our clinic through video-conferencing, allowing you to be at a your home or another location. Just like with any face-to-face appointment, you can invite a family member, care provider, or friend to accompany you if you wish.
How will the telemedicine appointment work?
A telemedicine appointment is just like a regular appointment. You will sit in front of a camera where you will be able to see yourself and your health care provider on the screen once your session begins. These appointments are also called virtual visits.
Your health care team will ask you questions and work with you to develop a plan of care, providing the same quality of care you would get in a face-to-face visit.
How can telemedicine benefit a patient?
Many patients who live in rural or medically underserved areas may not have access to the cardiovascular specialists or providers they need to monitor and treat their health. Telemedicine is a valuable and unique service to get you the care you need, no matter where you live.
Other benefits include:
- The ability to stay in your home community
- Reduced stress from the cost and time spent traveling
- Reduced absence from work or school
Is telemedicine private?
Just like a regular doctor’s appointment, your telemedicine visit will be private and confidential. What you say during your visit will only be seen and heard by you and your healthcare team.
What is the cost for telemedicine appointment?
You will be billed for your telemedicine appointment the same as if you were seeing your healthcare provider in person.
Many insurances cover telemedicine services. To find out if your insurance company will cover these services, please contact them directly or contact us.
Virtual Visit Resources
Tools You’ll Need
- Smartphone, Tablet or Laptop with Webcam
- Speakers or Headphones
- Telephone (optional if you do not have video on your phone)
Tips for a Successful Video Visit
- Conduct the virtual visit in a well-lit room so your provider can see you.
- Turn off background television or radio noise.
- Make sure the space is private, so you can discuss personal medical information.
- Write down questions for your provider before the visit.
- Have a paper and pen ready to take notes.
- Test your device prior to the visit.
Contact for Virtual Visit Issues
If you have trouble connecting or with the installation instructions, please call Baton Rouge Cardiology Center at 225-769-0933.
