FirstHealth Primary Care Clinic in Sanford Introduces Telemedicine Visits
| Date Posted: 4/15/2020
On April 9, FirstHealth Primary Care – Sanford launched telemedicine video appointments, available during regular clinic hours for existing patients.
In compliance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and social distancing guidelines for COVID-19, clinics are increasingly relying on telephone and video visits to treat patients.
Vindya Jeyaretnam, D.O. said it’s important that patients still receive proper care for acute medical concerns and chronic medical problems during this isolation period. Patients are asked to call the office to set up an appointment.
“Clinic staff will walk patients through the process over the phone, and make sure they’re set up for the visit on their mobile devices,” Dr. Jeyaretnam said. “First, you will speak to a nurse on the phone, and then you will have a live, real-time video visit with your provider. From that visit, providers have the ability to prescribe medications, as well as order lab tests and imaging, if necessary.”
Insurance companies are covering telemedicine appointments. Copays may or may not be required, depending on an individual’s coverage. Dr. Jeyaretnam said she’s excited to offer patients medical care that allows them to remain safe in the comfort of their own home.
“Telemedicine introduces a new and safe way to deliver healthcare in this difficult time,” she said. “It gives us another way to provide support for the community by continuing to care for our patients, and is a great addition to the FirstHealth – Lee campus.”
With telehealth, providers are able to follow patients’ chronic medical conditions, as well as treat acute medical problems, such as allergies or coughs. In addition to televideo, primary care clinics are offering telephone appointments for medical concerns or follow-ups that don’t require in-person treatments. To schedule a virtual appointment at FirstHealth Primary Care - Sanford, call (919) 897-2256.
Lee County Primary Care Locations:
Primary Care
Sanford, NC 27730
(919) 897-2256
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Friday: 8 a.m. - noon
