This post is at yet another look at a telemedicine initiative, this one is from health insurance giant United Healthcare. All that follows is from United Healthcare Virtual Visits page:
When you need care – anytime day or night – Virtual Visits can be a great option. From treating colds and fevers to caring for migraines and allergies, you can connect with a doctor whenever, wherever.
- Video chat with a doctor on your mobile device*, tablet or computer.
- Get a prescription if needed.**
- Pay $40 or less with your UnitedHealthcare plan.***
*Data rates may apply.
**Prescription services may not be available in all states.
***Check your official health plan documents to see what services and providers are covered by your health plan. Virtual visits are not an insurance product, health care provider or a health plan. Unless otherwise required, benefits are available only when services are delivered through a Designated Virtual Network Provider. Virtual visits are not intended to address emergency or life-threatening medical conditions and should not be used in those circumstances. Services may not be available at all times or in all locations.
The above paragraph “***Check your official health plan documents . . . . Services may not be available at all times and locations.” contains a number of interesting caveats.
The following sentences in the above paragraph, are important:
Virtual visits are not an insurance product, health care provider or a health plan. Unless otherwise required, benefits are available only when services are delivered through a Designated Virtual Network Provider.
See the websites of Doctor On Demand and amwell for details on both services.
Resources:
United Healthcare – This is the home page of what is the general portal. It has links and resources for Individual and Families Health Insurance, Employers (Group Health Insurance), Medicare Plans, Find A Doctor.
