MyChart
Frequently Asked Questions
Click each question below for its answer:
Telehealth, also known as telemedicine or virtual care, is care by a licensed health care provider using telecommunication and information technologies, often from a distance.
Yes. Guided by technical standards and clinical practice guidelines, and backed by decades of research and demonstrations, telehealth is a safe and cost-effective way to extend the delivery of health care.
St. Luke’s telehealth network is extremely secure. Your images and video calls are all conducted on a 526-bit encrypted private network. Although no computer network is 100% secure, St. Luke’s uses the latest security technologies to protect your health care information. At no time will your telehealth session be recorded or broadcasted without your permission.
The availability of specialists and other health professionals can be limited, depending on where you live and the services you require. St. Luke’s has invested in an expansive telehealth network that will benefit our patients in several ways:
- Reduced travel time and travel expenses
- Reduced time taken off work
- Easy access to care in a familiar environment
- Less stress, especially if you aren’t feeling well
Through telehealth, you can have real‐time, two‐way communication via secure online virtual sessions.
- It’s convenient—you’ll receive services from a location close to home at a time that fits best into your schedule.
- It’s simple—you’ll connect with a provider on our secure HIPAA-compliant network by using a computer, speaker and camera.
- It opens up access to more patients, such as those who live in rural areas or with mobility issues.
On-demand virtual care allows you access to same-day care seven days a week between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. You are able to see a St. Luke's provider from the comfort of your home on your computer or smartphone. Our goal is to make your health care as convenient and accessible as we can.
You can always elect to obtain your care through an in-person visit. You have the right to refuse telehealth care at any time during the visit. You may ask all other parties to leave the telehealth video conference session/suites if you’re uncomfortable.
Telehealth can be part of your care plan, but only if you want it to be. You can always choose to see your provider in person if you prefer.
You do not pay extra for inpatient services delivered via telehealth. Outpatient telehealth is billed the same as an office visit. St. Luke’s suggests you review your insurance policy and benefits before scheduling an outpatient telehealth visit. If you have questions regarding your policy, please contact your employer or insurance carrier.
With the use of secure videoconferencing equipment, you’ll have a live, real-time interaction with a specialist, almost as if he or she is in the same room. Your appointment will feel a lot like a traditional face-to-face appointment. You will be able to see, hear and talk to the provider. During the consultation you can discuss your health and any concerns you have. A member of the local health care team will be present, if necessary. If you wish, you may bring a friend or family member to the appointment.
Apart from you, the provider, and if necessary, a member of the local clinic staff, no one else will be present unless you want them to join. As with a face-to-face appointment, your spouse, partner, family member or friend may accompany you.
Ask your provider if a telehealth consultation is right for you. Not all specialists offer telehealth consultations. Your health care provider will discuss options with you.
Some of our services are offered via telehealth. This is an alternate method for your health care team to connect with you and provide necessary care. Telehealth services are conducted via a secure two-way audio/video network and delivered at the patient’s bedside.
The consulting telehealth specialist will be present via two-way audio/video. Your local attending provider and staff such as a nurse or respiratory therapist may also be present in the room with you.
Remote patient monitoring is a type of remote health care in which patients use mobile devices to share their condition with care providers. These devices may also offer two-way audio/video connection to providers.
Telehealth devices, including a small tablet, are shipped to your home, and you’re guided through a simple set-up of the equipment. You may be asked to take your blood pressure, weight, blood glucose or oxygen saturation daily using the devices. All of this information is sent to a clinician for review and follow-up.
Your primary care provider manages your care. A team of nurses and other health professionals (such as a social worker, diabetes educator, pharmacist or dietitian) will review your information daily and offer you support and encouragement as we work together with you to improve your health.
Think of remote patient monitoring as a “daily house call.” Your telehealth team can identify a slight deterioration in your condition so it can be managed quickly and you can avoid a trip to the hospital or clinic. And through your devices, you’ll receive tips and guidance to help you better manage your illness to support your long-term health.
Your feedback is extremely important to us. There are several ways to submit comments:
- Complete a post-visit evaluation.
- Talk directly to the clinic manager.
- Email your comments to [email protected].
- Thank a staff member through the St. Luke's website or through MyChart messages.
Please consider leaving your name and contact information so we can follow up with you.
Visit our telehealth services and virtual care page or send an email to [email protected].