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PUTNAM — Day Kimball Healthcare (DKH) launched telehealth services to help care for patients amid the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
Health care providers at Day Kimball Medical Group (DKMG), the physician practices of DKH, are taking the traditional office visit online to continue taking care of patients during these challenging times.
Telehealth video visits – conducted via smartphone, tablet, or a desktop or laptop computer equipped with a web camera – are well suited for most patients who want to see their provider but do not need to physically come to the practice. For patients who do not have access to a computer or smartphone, a regular phone call with their provider can be scheduled as well.
“Given the COVID-19 pandemic, DKMG is giving our patients an alternative to coming to the doctor’s office to receive their care,” said Matt Roy, executive director, Day Kimball Medical Group. “Telehealth visits will provide our patients the care they need and want, by letting patients see their healthcare provider from the comfort and security of their own home. It’s a safe, easy and convenient way to keep their appointments and stay connected with their caregivers.”
While some patients will still require office visits, based on their status and health conditions, DKMG clinicians are encouraging patients to stay connected through virtual office visits whenever possible.
To schedule a telehealth visit with a DKMG provider, patients should call their regular provider’s office. Any patient wishing to be seen as a new patient in one of the DKMG practices can call 1 (844) DKMG DOC (1-844-356-4362) to speak with a patient service representative.
Once a telehealth visit is scheduled, the office staff will send the patient detailed instructions on how to begin the virtual visit.
For those patients whose provider determines that they need to be seen in person, Day Kimball Medical Group locations are open and continue to welcome patients for their appointments.
DKH’s outpatient behavioral health department is also offering telehealth visits for mental health services. The stress and uncertainty of this pandemic can be particularly difficult for people with mental health conditions. These virtual visits will allow patients to talk with one of our health care providers by phone or video chat.
To schedule a virtual appointment with an outpatient behavioral health provider, call (860) 963-6385.
The Rose Bove LaRose Cancer Center at Day Kimball Hospital is also offering telehealth services for certain patient visits. To determine if a virtual visit is appropriate, patients should call the Cancer Center at (860) 963-6425.
United Services
United Services is now providing therapy sessions over telehealth, providing a safe and secure method for residents to take care of their mental health and reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Residents can schedule individual and family therapy sessions over telehealth, as well as intakes, medication evaluations and medication checks.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call United Services at 860-774-2020 or 860-456-2261 or visit unitedservicesct.org.
“Taking care of your mental health is especially important during times of stress,” said United Services President/CEO Diane L. Manning. “Telehealth allows United Services to continue to be here for northeastern Connecticut while also keeping residents safe and at home.”
USI is using a secure software system that is compliant with HIPAA and other healthcare regulations. Residents can participate with a computer enabled with speakers and a webcam, an internet-enabled tablet or an internet-enabled smartphone.
Telehealth is covered by many insurers, and some commercial insurers have said they will waive copays for telehealth for a limited time.
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