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Virtual Health Appointments Help Patients Get Care Right Away

March 24, 2023

Like many patients who aren’t feeling well and are concerned about their health, John in West Hartford was anxious to schedule an appointment with his primary care provider. He had several questions about his persistent symptoms that he was eager to get answers to. However, being seen immediately by his doctor isn’t always easy, and waiting three days for the next available appointment wasn’t an acceptable option.

Luckily for John, the front desk receptionist successfully arranged a virtual appointment for him through Hartford HealthCare Medical Group’s newly expanded virtual program. Best of all, he only had to wait 15 minutes to be seen — not three days.

The new program features a primary care virtual team, comprised of advanced practice providers and a supervising physician, all working exclusively virtual. They can see patients from anywhere across Hartford HealthCare’s network of care, and deliver the same high quality of care as you would expect in the traditional office setting.

Is virtual right for me?

It’s important to schedule an appointment whenever you’re experiencing out-of-the-ordinary pain or discomfort, such as headaches, back pain, stomach pain, or difficulty urinating. You may be experiencing symptoms of a health problem that your provider can identify and treat before it becomes serious. Delaying care could lead to a higher risk of illness, or potentially put people around you at risk.

Virtual health appointments bring high quality healthcare to you quickly and conveniently. Patients can connect from a number of devices — including computers, smartphone and tablets — to be seen from the comfort of their own home. Additionally, increased appointment availability makes virtual visits a great option for anyone who needs to be seen quickly.

Jayme Clark, PA-C, Regional Medical Director and family medicine healthcare provider, is excited to share this innovative program with the community. “Integrating our telehealth team as an extension of our primary care offices will provide patients with an alternate and safe pathway to achieving their health care goals,” says Clark.

Providing quality care

Although this was John’s first virtual health appointment, he found the experience to be incredibly easy and efficient, and was impressed with the nurse practitioner who conducted the virtual exam.

“She was extremely calm, positive and supportive,” explains John. “Most importantly, she expressed empathy for my situation right from the start, and showed a great deal of concern for my condition.”

Avoid long-term health problems

If you’re not feeling well, you don’t need to wait until your annual exam to see your provider. With so many 21st-century diseases being modifiable by early preventive care, scheduling a virtual appointment now can help you avert serious long-term health problems in the future. If the examining healthcare provider feels immediate care is needed, they may advise you to schedule a follow-up in-person appointment.