Pella Regional Health Center is now offering Virtual Visit capabilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A Virtual Visit allows a patient to meet with their local Pella Regional primary care provider through a secure, HIPAA compliant video chat without leaving their home. Patients can call their provider’s office to find out if Virtual Visits are appropriate for their condition. Your provider may also be reaching out to you to schedule a Virtual Visit.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Craig Wittenberg says with a Virtual Visit, providers can conduct a routine appointment, prescribe medications, coordinate additional treatment options and assess whether further care is needed.
“We’re excited to offer Virtual Visits in our region,” said Dr. Wittenberg. “The Virtual Visit enables us to provide even more people with access to health care using a progressive health care option.”
What patients will need for a Virtual Visit:
-Patient must be a “My Pella Health” portal user
-Device with a camera, speakers and microphone
-Strong internet connection
-Optional: current weight and blood pressure
During the COVID-19 crisis, it is crucially important patients stay well and manage chronic conditions. Other options include regular phone visits with a provider or an e-visit with a provider via the My Pella Health Patient Portal. Your health care provider will determine if your situation warrants a phone or e-visit.
Virtual, phone, and e-visits are covered by insurance including Medicare and Medicaid during the COVID-19 crisis. A co-pay may still apply based upon the coverage plan. Virtual Visits can be suitable as a follow-up visit for an acute condition, medication management for chronic conditions, reviewing test results and other types of visits in which close physical examination is not needed.
If experiencing a life-threatening situation, call 9-1-1 as Virtual Visits are not meant for emergency needs. To determine whether Virtual Visits, phone, or e-visits are appropriate for your condition, contact Pella Regional at 641-621-2200. More information on Virtual Visits is found on their website at www.pellahealth.org/virtual-visits.