Telehealth services with virtual care at SIU Medicine
Modern medicine and technology have made leaps and bounds in almost every way—including the way you and your family can access the care you need. SIU Medicine provides communities with virtual care services for a variety of conditions and issues. We offer a one-of-a-kind telemedicine experience for anyone in Illinois who is looking for high quality healthcare while staying in the privacy and safety of their own home.
And whether you're staying home because of COVID-19 or for any other reason, now is the perfect time to take advantage of our expanded virtual care services.
What is virtual care and what are the benefits?
Virtual care, also known as telemedicine or telehealth, is a way for SIU Medicine healthcare providers to consult with, treat, and assist patients virtually via video chat. It allows you to use technology you already own and are familiar with—such as your smart phone, tablet, desktop computer, or laptop—to speak with and even see your regular healthcare provider without even having to leave your home. Think of it as a virtual house call! All you need is an internet connection and a compatible device. We'll walk you through the process step-by-step.
Telehealth isn't new. It's actually been around for years, and research shows it can improve outcomes, remove barriers to access, and reduce costs for patients and their caregivers. Benefits for patients who opt to use telehealth appointments include:
- Our technology is confidential and HIPAA-compliant
- Patients can schedule follow-up visits with their providers even during the global pandemic (which has put a temporary hold on all activities deemed "non-essential," such as follow-up visits or preventive care)
- Patients maintain continuity of care when travelling to an appointment is difficult or not possible due to transportation issues
- It helps patients and their loved ones stay safe and avoid unnecessary exposure to other illnesses during the global COVID-19 pandemic, supporting social distancing efforts
- It reduces time, energy, and cost often associated with provider visits (e.g., scheduling time off work, commuting, sitting in the waiting room, finding child care, etc.)
Who is virtual care for?
While anyone can benefit from scheduling virtual visits with their healthcare provider, you or your loved one may be especially interested if you are:
- Immunosuppressed or immunocompromised
- Elderly
- Considered high risk for COVID-19
- Concerned about exposing your family to COVID-19
- Abiding by current local, state, or federal orders to socially distance from others
- Have limited or no access to primary or specialty care for any reason
SIU Medicine's approach to virtual care
During such unusual and uncertain times, we know how important it is to stay safe, stay connected, and get the support you need to be physically and mentally well—especially if you're already dealing with factors which can make access to personalized healthcare challenging.
That's why the team at SIU Medicine consciously promotes a healing culture that prioritizes family wellness, access for all (including specialty care), inclusion, and safety. We applaud your efforts to "flatten the curve" and protect your loved ones and community from COVID-19 by staying home. But we don't want you to think that means you have to go without the essential professional care and guidance you need to manage a health condition. Virtual visits with your provider can help you stay on top of your health even in challenging times.
Interested in virtual care? Need to schedule a follow up visit?
To find out more about virtual visits through SIU Medicine's expanded telehealth program, or to schedule a visit for yourself or a family member, call 217-545-8000 or request an appointment online.
