Virtual Visits
What is a Virtual Visit?
A Virtual Visit is a medical appointment with your health care provider conducted on a secure, HIPAA-compliant audio and video call. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) is US legislation concerning data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding a patient's protected health information. The Virtual Visit experience is similar to a Skype or Facetime call. DCH Family Medicine Clinics use a videoconferencing software called Zoom, which is designed specifically for health care interactions.
What all can be seen by a Virtual Visit?
Virtual Visits can be appropriate as a follow-up visit for an acute condition, medication management for chronic conditions, reviewing test results and other types of visits in which close physical examination is not needed.
Virtual Visits are not for emergency situations. If experiencing a life-threatening situation, call 9-1-1. For those who have symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, call your primary care physician’s office to determine if a Virtual Visit is appropriate.
What type of equipment do I need for the Virtual Visit?
- A current email address
- Access to the internet, either broadband or a 4G/LTE cell phone network sufficient for streaming audio and video calls, like FaceTime and Skype.
- A smartphone or tablet. You will be directed to download an app to your smartphone or tablet to make video connection.
What happens during a Virtual Visit?
Click on the link provided to you by your provider and you will enter the health care provider's Virtual Waiting Room, where you can test your audio and video quality before your visit starts. Once your health care provider joins the visit, you and your provider will hear and see each other via the software and the video screen, and your provider will conduct your visit.
How do I schedule a Virtual Visit?
Please contact your primary care provider to schedule an appointment and determine if a Virtual Visit is appropriate.
DCH Family Medicine Clinic Panora: 641-755-2121
DCH Family Medicine Clinic Perry: 515-465-3553
Are you recording my visit?
No. Visit recordings and photographs are prohibited.
Can my health care provider prescribe medications during my Virtual Visit?
Yes, your provider may prescribe medications, if deemed appropriate for your care.
Are Virtual Visits covered by insurance?
To determine your financial responsibility, please contact your healthcare insurer directly.