Video Doctor Visits: The New “House Call”

As most of us stay home to help flatten the curve of the COVID-19 outbreak, the UVM Health Network is rapidly expanding the availability of video visit technology. Video visits help you stay safely at home, while still giving access to the care you need now. They are quicker and more convenient than a phone call, and you and your provider can also see each other.

The next time you receive a call to confirm your appointment with a UVM Health Network provider, you may also be given the option of a video visit, along with support to set up your mobile device or computer for a video conference appointment.

First, talk with your doctor to determine if a video visit is right for you. If so, you’ll be scheduled and contacted by a support team member to help you prepare. Steps include downloading the Zoom Cloud Meetings app either from the app store onto your iPhone or iPad or from Google Play onto your Android device. If you need another option, the support staff will help you with that, as well.

“Ensuring access to medical care for our patients is a top priority for the University of Vermont Health Network. We are expanding telemedicine capabilities to meet our patients’ needs while ensuring their safety as well as the safety of our clinicians and staff,” said UVM Health Network Senior Vice President and Chief Population Health and Quality Officer Howard Schapiro, MD.

If you have a healthcare concern, it all starts by contacting your provider. The next time you contact them, ask if a video visit is the best option for you.

What You Need to Know:

Slow the Spread: Staying home helps flatten the curve by slowing the spread of the virus. This protects our community and reduces the burden on your healthcare providers.
Remember to Social Distance: If you are outside of your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet from any other people. If you have a cough, wear a mask to protect others.
Remember Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you can’t wash your hands use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. And keep your hands away from your face.
If You Feel Sick: Unless it is an emergency, please stay at home and contact your doctor by phone or through MyChart. If you have COVID-19 symptoms that are not severe, stay at home and self-isolate.

A message from John R. Brumsted, MD

President and CEO, The University of Vermont Health Network

Sometimes, the simplest tools are among the most effective. That principle applies even amid the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. I want to underscore a key message you’ve been hearing from Vermont Gov. Phil Scott: “Stay home, stay safe.” When you stay home, you’ll slow the spread of this virus and protect your loved ones – especially the most vulnerable. And you’ll be helping to ensure that our health care providers, including the affiliates of the UVM Health Network, are prepared to serve our communities.