In today’s world, technology allows people to extend control of various facets of life at the tip of their fingertips. Like social networking and banking, the health care industry is utilizing online tools to give members an opportunity to manage their health care and receive wellness guidance in a quick, convenient way.
What is virtual care?
Virtual care is a broad term that refers to health care services that utilize telecommunications technology -- like video meetings, phone calls or instant messaging. It can provide general wellness guidance, tips on preventive care and can cater to specific health goals.
Virtual care may substitute for an in-person encounter between a patient and the health care provider when using the appropriate technology. For some, this may seem complex; however, the onboarding process is simple and can yield positive results.
Here are some quick tips to make the most of convenient, budget-friendly digital health care tools:
Find a doctor
Virtual care has become a resource for health insurers to assist members in finding a fitting health care team.
One example of this is the Find-A-Doctor tool, which gives individuals the opportunity to get to know their health care options, see which providers are in-network, find or change their primary care physician and view cost estimates for services, to compare and potentially save. Members can review a doctor’s experience, specialty and location.
Manage an account
Blue Cross and Blue Care Network members can view records, schedule appointments and make payments with the click of a button through an online account.
All it takes is verifying name, birthdate and enrollee ID to access personal account information.
Use digital tools to treat minor illnesses
Colds, flus, seasonal allergies, sore throats and sprains can all potentially be addressed using mobile apps, online tools or remote doctor communications.
Many patients are unaware that many health questions and concerns can be addressed 24 hours a day, seven days a week over the phone through a nurse line.
A 24-Hour Nurse Line is available for members:
- PPO Plans - Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan: 1-800-775-BLUE (2583)
- HMO Plans - Blue Care Network: 1-855-624-5214
If you need more after-hours advice than can be provided by the nurse line, consider connecting with a doctor or certified nurse practitioner through an online visit.
Photo credit: Wavebreakmedia
