What is telehealth? A simple guide
Key takeaways:
- Telehealth lets you see a doctor or nurse from the comfort of your home.
- You can talk to your provider from home using a phone, computer or tablet.
- It’s faster and more convenient to get care. It could even save you money.
- Telehealth can help with treating minor illnesses, primary care visits, managing chronic conditions and mental health.
What is telehealth or virtual care?
When you talk to your doctor from home using a phone, computer or tablet, you’re using telehealth. Think of it like a video call with your doctor. You can see them on your screen, and they can see you. You can also talk to them on the phone if you don't want to use video.
Some people also call it telemedicine or virtual care.
What are the benefits of telehealth?
- You save time. You don’t need to drive to the doctor's office or sit in a waiting room.
- It’s quick and convenient. You can have your appointment at home and could see a doctor at night or on weekends. You might even get an appointment faster. Some providers may provide help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- You can see a doctor even if you live far away from a hospital. You can talk to special doctors who don't live near you.
- It helps keep you safe. You don't have to go out when you're sick or if the weather is bad. You won't catch germs from other sick people in the waiting room.
- It could save you money. Telehealth visits could cost less than going to the office. It can help you avoid expensive emergency room visits.
- The doctors you see on telehealth visits are fully trained and licensed. Studies show that telehealth works just as well as regular doctor visits.*
How does telehealth work?
- Before your visit, you make an appointment with your provider. You set up an account if you need to use a special app or website. Make sure you have a smartphone, computer or tablet that’s fully charged.
- At the time of your appointment, you call your provider or connect through video. You can see and talk to them on your screen. You show your provider any problems (like a rash or a sore throat).
- Some people use special devices that help their provider check on them from far away. These devices can send information to your provider automatically. This is called remote monitoring. They can measure things like:
- Your blood pressure
- Your weight
- Your heart rate
- Your blood sugar, if you have diabetes
- After your visit, your provider can send a prescription to your pharmacy if you need one. Some pharmacies will even bring the medicine to your home.
What health conditions can telehealth help with?
-
Minor illnesses
- Colds, flu and sore throats
- Ear infections
- Pink eye (red, itchy eyes)
- Sinus infections
- Allergies
- Skin rashes
- Upset stomach
- Urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Minor burns or cuts
-
Chronic conditions
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Asthma
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
-
Mental health
- Sadness
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
Is telehealth covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans now cover telehealth visits. Call your insurance company to ask if they cover telehealth. You can also ask if there's a cost for the visit. This is called a copay. Medicare and Medicaid usually cover telehealth services.
Does Aetna® cover telehealth services?
With Aetna, 24/7 virtual care is a part of most plans. You could also be covered for services such as primary and mental health virtual care.
Most Aetna plans offer access to the CVS Virtual Care® service. You can quickly connect with a provider for 24/7 care (for adults and children over 18 months). Primary care and mental health appointments are also available. You could get some services for $0 cost.*
Other options could include virtual visits with your primary care provider or appointments with specialists who offer telehealth.
If you’re an Aetna member, log in to your member website to check your plan details and what your plan covers.
What happens before and during a telehealth visit?
How do I prepare for a telehealth visit?
- Make sure your phone, tablet or computer is charged. Download any apps you need before your appointment.
- Be sure to have your information ready, including your insurance card.
- Write down any questions you want to ask.
- Have a list of medicines you take.
- Know your symptoms so you can tell your provider how you feel and how long you’ve felt that way.
What do I need to do during a telehealth visit?
Bottom line:
Telehealth is a great way to see a doctor without leaving home.
Ask your provider if they offer telehealth services. You’ll be surprised at how convenient and helpful it can be!
Legal notices
Aetna is the brand name used for products and services provided by one or more of the Aetna group of companies, including Aetna Life Insurance Company and its affiliates (Aetna).
This message is for informational purposes only, is not medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute or proper medical care provided by a physician. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. Refer to Aetna.com for more information about Aetna® plans. Subject to benefits and eligibility verification.
Health benefits and health insurance plans contain exclusions and limitations.