It seems that we increasingly live in an instant gratification society, and more and more we want on-demand services at our fingertips. For those who need that instant access even the crew at Lakeland Health has heard your cry. As a result, patients now have the ability to consult with a physician by using their Lakeland MyChart account as part of a new "tele-health" initiative being offered at Southwestern Medical Clinics in Bridgman, Niles, and Stevensville, as well as at the Stagg Medical Center in Hartford.
E-visits are currently available for patients suffering from low-intensity complaints — things like back pain, pink-eye, coughs, heartburn, and similar such ailments.
Kendall Troyer is Vice President of Outpatient Diagnostic and Post-Acute Care Services for Lakeland Health. Troyer says, "Health care is changing faster than ever and we are always looking for new ways to engage our patients and provide the highest quality,, most convenient forms of care." He adds, “Research shows that consumers increasingly expect ‘on-demand’ care and would prefer emailing their provider about their symptoms even when the clinic is conveniently located.”
After an e-visit is initiated, patients complete a questionnaire regarding their symptoms and within one business day a physician will assess their condition, provide treatment options, and if needed, send a prescription to the pharmacy of their choice. Providers utilizing e-visits will charge a $35 out-of-pocket fee per visit. The first Lakeland Health e-visit was recently completed by family physician, James Kroeze, DO, and was initiated by a patient suffering from back pain.
Lakeland Health Pediatrician and Medical Director, Dr. Chris Harvey discusses the new treatment option in a short video explaining how it all works. You can watch that video by clicking the link below:
