In the midst of our current health crisis, life continues, and other maladies are still occurring. But with healthcare services being dedicated to fighting the coronavirus (COVID-19), you might be tempted to postpone or not seek other healthcare. Maybe your doctor’s office is closed to nonurgent care, or you don’t want to risk going into a healthcare clinic unnecessarily.

While social distancing is critical for slowing the spread of COVID-19, your overall health and healthcare are also important.

The good news? You have options.

If you’re feeling sick, have an ongoing condition, or you’re not sure if you need to be seen, you have virtual healthcare options. Now, more than ever, providers are finding ways to support their patients through telehealth services (phone- or web-based care).

Note: If you do have coronavirus symptoms, and are covered by a PacificSource plan, rest assured you’ll pay $0 for COVID-19-related testing, diagnosis, and treatment.

Take advantage of telehealth

If you need care, check with your doctor’s office to see if they offer telehealth (phone- or web-based services). Many providers are offering more in-depth phone appointments or consultations. Some may even have video-appointment capabilities. Please see our telehealth blog post for information about telehealth costs.

If you don’t currently need care but want to know what’s available, check their website or social media pages. There’s also a good chance your provider’s office has emailed you with more information about who they’re seeing in the office, under what conditions, and how to get care if you don’t fall within those in-office parameters.

For members with individual or employer coverage, you also have the option of using the Teladoc® app for telehealth services. Visit PacificSource.com/Teladoc for more information.

Get advice from our 24-Hour NurseLine

Determining whether or not urgent or emergency care is needed can often be difficult in the moment, especially in those after-hours moments. If you find yourself, or someone you care about, in a non-life-threatening medical situation and you want professional help, call our 24-Hour NurseLine, included with your health insurance plan. The benefits:

  • Free 24/7 phone access
  • Assistance with health-related questions or concerns
  • Help determining whether your situation requires a higher level of care

To access the nurse line, call (855) 834-6150.

Handy Tips

  • Save the phone number for the 24-Hour NurseLine in your phone, and make sure it’s posted/written somewhere where your family can easily find it, like on your fridge.
  • Prioritize behavioral and mental healthcare. Mental healthcare providers also offer virtual options, and now is a critical time to prioritize your mental health.
  • Be patient. Many provider offices are small, local businesses that are also trying to keep their doors open during these challenging times, and may be short staffed.

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