Press release from Formation:
As part of a long-range planning effort to provide accessible, quality care to patients, and now fast-tracked as an effort to maximize patient safety and minimize unnecessary exposure to coronavirus or other respiratory illness, Pardee UNC Health is pleased to announce telehealth options for their patients. Utilizing telehealth options, patients will be able to speak with their provider from the comfort of their home, while maintaining social distancing during statewide and county stay at home orders.
This latest option for care is just one of many steps that Pardee is taking to promote safe medical care options for patients, while limiting exposure to the coronavirus. In place since March 15, the Pardee COVID-19 Help Line (828-698-8048) is an additional tool that assists in screening patients with potential symptoms and directing them to the appropriate location or service.
The move to telehealth visits is an important step in keeping offices available to those patients who do require in-person care but need to avoid unnecessary exposure to respiratory illness. “In addition to being a safer option for both patients and providers, telemedicine offers several other benefits,” said Dr. David Ellis, chief medical officer, Pardee UNC Health. “It allows elderly patients and those who may rely on others for transportation to have access to medical care without leaving their home.”
Patients interested in changing their in-person appointment to a phone or video visit can contact their physician practice via MyChart or telephone. The provider will determine if a telemedicine visit is an appropriate method for the patient and instructions will be provided to proceed.
If patients do require an in-person visit, Pardee has created ways to ensure their safety and that of staff. While each patient is allowed one companion during his or her visit, that person is being asked to remain in the car, if possible. It is understood there are circumstances that a patient requires assistance. Patients are notified of these new safety measures over the phone before their appointment, so they are prepared.
Pardee UNC Health is a not-for-profit community hospital founded in 1953 and is managed by UNC Health. The hospital is licensed for 222 acute care beds. Pardee has several locations separate from the main campus, including a comprehensive physician practice network, a cancer center, three urgent care locations and five orthopedic clinics. For more information or to find a physician, visit www.pardeehospital.org.
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