Telehealth appointments are now through Athena. Please call the office if you have not set up your patient portal. You do not have to be logged in to the portal for your appointment, but it is advantageous to set up access ahead of time. You will be sent a link a few days before your appointment that will bring you straight to the telehealth.
Q: What is telehealth?
A: Telehealth is defined as the delivery of health care services via electronic devices allowing for video and audio interactions between a patient and health care provider who are not in the same location.
Q: What are the risks of using an online platform for health care?
A: Risks associated with use of telehealth platforms are related to functionality of the internet system, devices used for telehealth, and security protocols for the telehealth service could fail leading to a breech of privacy.
Q: What can I do to ensure my telehealth experience runs smoothly?
A: The following steps can help to ensure that your telehealth experience is satisfactory.
1. Select a quiet, private location in which to visit with your health care provider
2. Be sure you have updated the software on your electronic device.
3. Telehealth requires access to camera and audio. You will be prompted to allow access to these features when you log into the virtual waiting room. Do not ignore the prompts.
4. Use of Google Chrome is recommended for the best online experience.
5. Click on the link that was sent to you 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment to log in.
6. Once you have entered the virtual waiting room, a staff member will meet you online and start your appointment.
7. If you have waited longer than 15 minutes for your appointment, please call the office.
Q: What type of visits can be accomplished via telehealth with DCFC?
A: DCFC has identified the following categories appropriate for telehealth visits:
1. Medication rechecks
2. Illness visits – may require an in person follow up as deemed appropriate by the provider
3. Chronic disease management
Visits that are not appropriate for telehealth services from DCFC:
1. Well child or annual exams
2. Sport or pre -operative physical examinations
3. New patient visits
Q: What happens if I need to be evaluated in person?
A: DCFC health care providers will guide you through the next steps if further evaluation is necessary. Your health care provider may choose to meet you at the clinic, have you go to the clinic for laboratory evaluation, or direct you to a local emergency room, as your symptoms necessitate. The best place to start is to meet your DCFC provider via telehealth.
DCFC is committed to providing health care to our community.
Please contact the clinic if you have any questions or concerns regarding your health.
Dr. Gretchen Moen, DNP, APRN, CPNP
Clinical Director