Telehealth or In-Person Care?
To see or not to see?
The question of our time! Much like a virus does, age-old sayings can mutate over time. And ever since our unfortunate introduction to the novel coronavirus, we’ve adopted this new variant of Shakespeare’s iconic To Be or Not to Be.
To see or not to see? As with Shakespeare’s question, the answer to this one can have some pretty serious ramifications. In the case of a global pandemic, we’ve learned “not to see” each other as normal is the painful but preferable option. However, there are a few extenuating circumstances - health care being one of them. That’s why we at FRESH Med make both options possible for you by offering in-person and telehealth services.
To see: In-person visits
We are still offering in-person appointments with Dr. Graham in our office at 800A Fifth Ave (in the Juhi Ash Center).
In order to provide the safest environment for our clients, we have implemented the following precautionary measures, as directed by the CDC:
The CDC challenges every doctor’s office to “Plan, Prepare, and Respond.” The cleaning guidelines have been established and distancing protocol explained. We exceed the requirements through expansive sanitation processes, above the cleaning standards set forth by the CDC.
We know that connection through empathic care and service has been, and always will be, our single biggest point of difference. FRESH Medicine will…
Update scheduling processes to abide by social distancing guidelines
Require facemasks for all staff, clients and visitors upon entry
Screen all employees and clients for exposure risk
Abide by strict hand hygiene and use of PPE
Expand cleaning protocols for patient and visitor areas
We are also happy to announce that each one of our team members is regularly tested for the COVID-19 virus in order to ensure the safety of our clients and our environment.
Clients can expect the following changes:
A confirmation call and screening forms via email 48-hrs prior to your scheduled appointment that MUST BE completed 24-hrs prior to your arrival.
Credit Card information prior to your appointment, as we will not be accepting cash for payment or gratuities
Temperature checks upon arrival for your appointment
If you have any other questions or concerns about your decision to see us for an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Not to see: Telehealth appointments
Okay, in this case we’ll still “see” you, albeit through our screens.
We know by now you’ve FaceTimed with just about everyone you know - but maybe not yet your doctor. If it sounds strange or intimidating, we’ll help you through it. Telehealth couldn’t be safer and simpler! Here’s why:
Telehealth is easier than going to the doctor’s office
Telehealth is typically as straightforward as a patient chatting with a doctor over a video call. Think of it like FaceTime, but with HIPAA, HITECH compliance and privacy protection. Telehealth is particularly suited to certain types of medical care, including general consultations, mental health care, follow-up appointments and prescription refills.
We believe 50-80% of what we do really doesn’t need to happen in-person. We have contracted care with our labs, imaging centers and testing centers/websites to get you your blood work, saliva, breath and stool testing sent directly to your home.
Virtual care helps everyone combat the coronavirus
This is especially important for patients who think they have COVID-19 but aren’t sick enough to require hospitalization. Virtual consultations allow doctors to triage patients without the risk of spreading the virus, and patients can get quick treatment for their symptoms. (Currently, there’s no proven treatment for the virus itself).
Even if you feel healthy enough to visit your doctor in person for a checkup, you should reconsider. Many routine health care needs can be addressed using telehealth tools, and staying home is still the best way to do your part in the fight against the pandemic.
Still unsure?
Don’t worry, scholars are still pondering the whole “to be or not to be” thing and it’s been over 400 years. Call or email us! We can help you decide between in-person and telehealth care in less than a century, guaranteed. Whatever you chose, we’re here to help you stay FRESH.