How & When to Choose the Right Virtual Health Option

Virtual health is here to stay, and it’s easy to see why. Patients love the convenience of accessing care via a smartphone, tablet or computer. And telehealth visits are often covered by insurance, just like traditional in-person appointments.

Perhaps the biggest challenge is knowing which virtual healthcare option is right for you. At St. Elizabeth our goal is to make healthcare simple and accessible, so you can feel better faster — no matter what life throws your way.

We’ve designed Virtual Health offerings that include:

• Nurse Now — A free 24/7 helpline to guide you to the right level of care.
• Video Visits on Demand — Virtual care from a St. Elizabeth provider. This service is available to anyone, including those who aren’t St. Elizabeth patients.
• Video Visits — This service connects current St. Elizabeth patients to their provider virtually, from the comfort of home.
• Symptom Checker — This free online tool helps you know what kind of care you need, whether at home, virtually or in person.

All our Virtual Health options are available to people in Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana.

When Should I Use Virtual Care?

Virtual care (sometimes called telehealth) can be a great choice when you have:

• A minor injury, such as a cut, sprain or bruise.
• A minor illness, such as an eye infection, skin irritation or headache.
• Cold or flu symptoms.
• Seasonal allergies.

In-person doctor visits are best when you need:

• A thorough physical exam.
• Hands-on treatment, such as ear wax removal or wound care.
• Access to on-site medical equipment or lab tests.
• Care for a new or concerning symptom that needs a detailed assessment.

As always, if you are dealing with a life-threatening emergency, such as chest pain or severe trauma, call 911.

Learn how to access different types of care at St. Elizabeth.

What is Nurse Now?

If you aren’t sure what type of care you need, call Nurse Now at 888-4STE-NOW. Our staff is available day and night. They can assess your situation and guide you to the right level of care. The nurse may recommend:

• Home remedies.
• Virtual care.
• An in-person appointment with your provider.
• Urgent care.
• Emergency care.

The nurse can also answer your health-related questions and help you understand your prescriptions and medication side effects.

What are Video Visits on Demand?

Video Visits on Demand offer same-day and next-day appointments with a St. Elizabeth telehealth provider. You can save time and avoid waiting rooms with fast, convenient care from a licensed provider. They are a good fit when dealing with common issues such as coughs, allergies and minor skin problems. “Video Visits on Demand are a wonderful option to connect with a licensed nurse practitioner either while on a break at work or from the convenience of your own home,” says Tammy Bowen, an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner who does Video Visits on Demand at St. Elizabeth.

Video Visits on Demand are for anyone, regardless of whether they have a St. Elizabeth provider. Appointments are available seven days a week, starting as early as 7 a.m. and as late as 9 p.m. (depending on the day).

What Are Video Visits?

Video Visits allow you to connect with your St. Elizabeth provider on a safe, secure platform. You can schedule a Video Visit through MyChart (online or in the app). These visits are ideal for ongoing management of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure or follow-ups for recent tests or treatments. Not all providers utilize this service, double-check with your providers office to see if this service is available to you.

What is Symptom Tracker?

Symptom Tracker is a free tool on the St. Elizabeth website that helps you learn:

• How severe your symptoms are.
• Whether you need medical care.
• How to treat your symptoms at home.

It’s quick and easy to use and provides helpful information backed by trusted experts at St. Elizabeth.

When in Doubt, Call Nurse Now

Sometimes, the choice of where to receive care is clear. But if you aren’t certain, or just need reassurance from an experienced nurse, call Nurse Now at 888-4STE-NOW. No matter the time or day, we’re here to provide peace of mind and expert care recommendations, so you’re never left wondering what to do next.