Telehealth offers fast, easy access to care

Published on Wednesday, November 1, 2023

By: Rachel Vanderford, rvanderford@umc.edu

Cold and flu season can be a daunting time of the year, marked by the risk of contracting contagious illnesses in crowded waiting rooms. Thankfully, the evolution of health care has provided us with an invaluable solution: telehealth.

Telehealth, which allows patients to receive expert care from a provider without the need for an in-person visit, not only safeguards you from exposure to illnesses but also streamlines the health care process. Virtual visits cut down on waiting times and travel, ensuring that you spend less time in transit and more time focusing on your recovery. This approach is particularly beneficial when you're juggling work commitments or need to arrange childcare, as you can access health care from the comfort of your home.

The University of Mississippi Medical Center stands as a pioneer in the realm of telehealth. Recognized as one of only two Centers of Excellence in Telehealth, the UMMC Center for Telehealth serves as a national clearinghouse for telehealth research and resources. Video visits with UMMC providers are available to anyone located in Mississippi, anytime with UMMC 2 You.

“We want people to know that they have this option, and we encourage them to use it,” Jennifer Bryant, director of operations, said. “This technology helps us reach patients in rural areas where access to health care is not as readily available. It’s also convenient for anyone needing non-emergency urgent care or mental health care.”

Integrated with UMMC MyChart, the Medical Center’s website and app for securely viewing and managing health information, UMMC 2 You makes booking same-day appointments with a health care provider quick and easy.

With access to Wi-Fi and a smartphone, tablet, or computer, you can connect virtually with a qualified medical professional from the comfort of your own space. Whether you're dealing with minor medical concerns such as upper respiratory issues, allergies, rashes, joint pain or other common health issues, UMMC 2 You is available 24/7.

UMMC Telehealth nurse practitioners can diagnose non-emergency, urgent care ailments, prescribe medications, and provide you with the necessary health education. The service extends beyond physical health, offering mental health and nutrition care appointments during regular business hours, ensuring that your overall well-being is taken into account.

“The combination or severity of symptoms varies from patient to patient,” Dr. Tearsanee Davis, director of clinical programs and strategy, said. “We ask patients an array of questions as part of the health interview to determine what may be going on with them. Most ailments are easily addressed via telehealth, as patients do a good job of determining what is emergent and what is not. There are times when we may refer them for in person care, but we are still caring for them every step along the way.”

If your telehealth provider determines that an in-person clinic visit or lab work is necessary, they refer to providers in your local community to reduce travel burden. If needed, providers will also help you set up the appointment, ensuring a seamless transition from virtual to physical care. UMMC 2 You has access to a statewide network of providers, allowing them to refer you to the most appropriate health care professional for your follow-up care.

You can also read an after-visit summary of your appointment, message your care team for non-urgent needs and request prescription refills with MyChart.

The cost of visits is determined by the patient's insurance and the type of visit, with patients receiving an estimate prior to the start of their appointment. An additional $15 charge applies for after-hours care, weekends and holidays. Insurance is not mandatory for scheduling an appointment.

In partnership with the Mississippi Department of Education, UMMC extends its telehealth services to public school students at no charge. The statewide school-based telehealth program empowers school nurses in participating districts to schedule virtual appointments with UMMC providers, offering prompt care for students' physical and mental health needs during school hours. This initiative provides students with an additional level of support, ensuring that their health doesn't hinder their educational pursuits.

In the schools, school nurses may call the Center for Telehealth to request an appointment for urgent care or mental health for a time that is convenient for both the student and the parent. Parents or guardians may join virtually.

For more information on telehealth, visit this website or make an appointment at 601-815-2020.

The above article appears in CONSULT, UMMC’s monthly e-newsletter sharing news about cutting-edge clinical and health science education advances and innovative biomedical research at the Medical Center and giving you tips and suggestions on how you and the people you love can live a healthier life. Click here and enter your email address to receive CONSULT free of charge. You may cancel at any time.