We have implemented Telehealth Services! Our patients now have the option of virtual video or audio visits with a clinician. Patients will need access to a phone and/or the internet through a device with video capability (computer, smart phone, or tablet), and a private space where they can talk with the clinician.
One of our clinicians working in our telehealth program stated: “I am still doing the important work of meeting the sexual and reproductive needs of our patients, along with improving access to care, perhaps more so, during this unprecedented time…and still providing an excellent level of care using audio/visual means.”
During our pivot to respond to COVID-19 concerns, we’re viewing this public health challenge as an opportunity to better serve and protect our patients, our staff, and the entire community. Patients have been asking for a virtual visit option for a while — and now we’re able to do it! We saw our first virtual patients starting in late March, and every day we continue to learn and develop additional processes and systems to improve the experience for both patients and the staff working our telehealth services.
Telehealth addresses the issue of physical distancing, while still providing continuity of care. These virtual visits are types that don’t require advanced services or an exam. If it turns out, during the course of the virtual visit, that a patient requires medication, blood draw, or other types of follow-up, we will schedule a visit for the patient to come into the health center to get what they need.
Telehealth will be here to stay in one dimension or another. Our immediate goal is to best serve as many patients as possible, with a minimum amount of face-to-face contact, according to what is feasible — while still maintaining the high standards of skillful, empathic care that we are known for.
Patients have been very receptive, and have given us excellent feedback:
“Very helpful staff and very easy to set up an appointment.”
“I just did my first virtual visit so I don’t have to leave my house since this pandemic, and now even better than ever! I love it!”
“He was so nice and helpful and took care of me right away and didn’t rush anything and answered all my questions and concerns! He was amazing!!”
“Very grateful to the very kind and professional people who helped me through it. PP always treats me with the utmost dignity and respect!"
We are so proud of the team for this amazing accomplishment. Thirty Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest staff ramped up this service over just two weeks— through sheer dedication and team effort — rolling out the processes and systems to make virtual visits a reality for our patients.
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Tags: telehealth