If you weren’t feeling well and had questions, where would you turn if your mom wasn’t available? For several years, many insurance companies have offered nurse lines to give advice about whether to seek medical attention. Now there’s another option!
Minnesota’s major health insurance carriers have added online medical clinics which allow you to interact with a nurse practitioner or physician and receive appropriate treatment. These online clinics offer direct access to a medical provider right from your computer. One plan also offers phone or an on-line chat. Depending on your plan, you may be using an on-line diagnosis tool or speaking directly to a physician.
You can use the online clinic for fairly common illnesses and conditions such as:
Cold and sinus
Skin conditions
Eye conditions
Allergies
Ear pain
The schedules of these online clinics vary, depending on the insurance carrier. One offers service 24/7, while another has specific hours. If your condition requires a prescription, with some restrictions, the provider can call it into the pharmacy of your choice. There’s a fee for this service, usually around $40. Depending on your benefits, some insurance carriers will even waive the fee.
This is one innovation that is sure to save time and money by providing low-cost, convenient services to members! To find out if your plan offers this service, contact your benefits specialist where you work or call your insurance carrier. And Mom? You can still call her for moral support. You’ll both feel better knowing that you’re on your way to good health.