Video healthcare visits offer immediate attention in an on-demand world

The scenario is all too familiar: You ignore the faint tickle in the back of your throat on the weekend. You shrug off the slight ache in your shoulders on Tuesday. But by Thursday, you can’t avoid the fact that you have a temperature of 101, probably have the flu and can’t move off of the couch. Instead of reaching for the car keys and driving to your doctor’s office, pick up your smartphone instead. Yale New Haven Health’s new Video Care OnDemand service offers the same attention and quality of care as your doctor’s office, without taking time off work or traveling to your appointment. No smartphone? No problem. You can use your iPad, laptop or desktop computer too.

Video visits are great for common illnesses and injuries such as:

• Allergies
• Back pain (new onset)
• Colds
• Earaches
• Headaches
• Influenza (Flu)
• Low-grade fevers
• Mild/moderate asthma
• Minor eye irritations
• Minor rashes
• Sore throats
• Sprains and strains

Anyone can access Video Care OnDemand, which replaced YNHHS’ MDLIVE telehealth benefit as of Dec. 31, 2019. The new Video Care OnDemand offers a special, lower rate to benefits-eligible Yale New Haven Health employees and their covered adult dependents. (Pediatric services currently are not available.) Video visits are just $5 for Advantage Plus Plan members and $10 for Advantage Plan members. The service is a convenient, cost-effective alternative to using emergency departments or urgent care centers for common, non-life threatening conditions.

“Video Care OnDemand doesn’t replace your primary care providers. It’s an option for when you’re at home or work and need to see a clinician,” said Michael Dimenstein, vice president, YNHHS System Compensation and Benefits.

Getting started is as easy as 1-2-3. It all starts with a MyChart account. (If you don’t have a MyChart account, go online and visit: www.ynhhs.org/ondemand. Download the free MyChart mobile app by searching for “MyChart” in the App Store or Google Play.)

1. Log into MyChart from the mobile app or a supported web browser. Confirm your location, select your symptom(s) and then schedule your video visit.
2. About 15 minutes before your video visit, complete the e-CheckIn information within the MyChart app or on the website. This includes validating your insurance and your health and medical history.
3. After your payment is processed, a medical assistant will greet you and review your information before a care provider joins the video conference. After your session, the care provider will document your visit including any follow-up recommendations.

Video Care OnDemand covers all of Connecticut and is available weekdays (except holidays), 7 am – 7 pm. Weekends and after-hours coverage and pediatric services are available through Anthem’s LiveHealth online service at https://livehealthonline.com or by calling 1-888-LiveHealth (1-888-548-3432).

Your time is important – especially when you’re sick. To make the most of your video visit, find a quiet, private place in your home or office for the appointment. Remember to check your internet connection. Be sure you have a strong WiFi or cellular connection to stay connected with the clinician.