Telehealth Services: A Permanent Shift in Healthcare Delivery

The Benefits of Virtual Health for You and Your Family

Although virtual health is not a new concept, the use of virtual health has grown tremendously in recent years. In fact, it has become a fundamental and permanent shift in healthcare delivery, especially after its surge during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Highmark plan participants, we offer 24/7 virtual healthcare covering non-emergency conditions such as colds, flu, sinus infections, and allergies. However, this basic approach to healthcare is rapidly evolving and a few developments are shaping its future that you and your loved ones should be aware of.

Chronic Care Management

Greater focus on chronic care management is a trend in the virtual healthcare evolution. Telehealth is increasingly used for chronic conditions allowing members to receive dermatology treatment and care for acne, eczema, psoriasis and other chronic skin-related concerns. You can call for a temporary quicker skin check or ensure you have longer term care for a more chronic skin condition. The convenience and accessibility of remote consultations for chronic conditions is a trend that serves the needs of patients well and will continue to grow.

Skip the Waiting Room — Access Medical Care from Anywhere

Virtual health is a great resource, and it offers a multitude of benefits that cater to modern healthcare needs. It provides the convenience of accessing medical care from anywhere, eliminating the need for travel and reducing time spent in waiting rooms.

This model of healthcare is particularly advantageous for those with mobility issues, chronic conditions, or those living in remote areas where healthcare access may be limited.

Virtual care also plays a crucial role in controlling infectious illnesses by minimizing patient exposure to others, thus protecting both patients and healthcare workers. It allows for more efficient appointments and can lead to cost savings on transportation and other related expenses for you.

The Pension Boards remains committed to continuing to improve your experience and, provided you have our Highmark medical coverage, you have this great benefit available to you.