Why choose telehealth?
Telehealth is any medical care you access virtually, online, or remotely. It lets you talk with a range of health care providers on your mobile device, computer, or landline. Using telehealth virtual health care gives you:
Easy access
If you live in a remote area, don't have reliable or public transportation, or have mobility challenges, you can still see or speak with a doctor.
Cost savings
You don't have to take a lot of time off work, drive, or go anywhere. All you need is access to the internet and a smartphone or computer.
Convenience
It may be easier to find an appointment that matches your schedule. Most telehealth visits can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
Quality care
You can stay with your current health care provider or choose a new one from our large network of quality providers.
More options
From talking on the phone with your doctor to having a video call, there are many ways you can get the care you need.
Common uses of telehealth
Not sure when to use telehealth services? There are a number of situations in which virtual health care could be an excellent option.
Routine medical visits
Telehealth is a great option for many routine, non-emergency medical visits, including:
- Minor illnesses, such as a cold or flu
- Managing medications
- Prescription refills
Mental health services
For many people, discussing confidential topics in the privacy of their own home feels better than going to a doctor's office. You can schedule virtual visits for you, your child, or teen for:
- Mental health counseling
- Therapy sessions
- Psychiatry appointments
Follow-up appointments
Telehealth can be an effective alternative to an in-person appointment when you need follow-up care:
- After an initial evaluation
- To go over lab or test results
Ask your provider if follow-up visits can be done remotely.
Chronic disease management
At-home technologies give you the ability to track important health metrics for your providers, such as blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels, for conditions like:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Asthma
Our members have great options for virtual care
As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) member, you may get
telehealth virtual health care services as part of your health plan.
Use telehealth with your current provider
Have a great relationship with your existing PCP (primary care provider) or health care provider? Your current in-network health care providers may already use telemedicine as part of their practice.
Ask your providers if you can see them with telehealth during their regular business hours and:
- What their preferred telehealth visit methods are
- When to schedule a virtual visit
- When to schedule an in-person visit
Need an in-network provider? Try one of these options:
Try a Teladoc provider
Certain Blue Cross NC plans include access to Teladoc®, our comprehensive virtual care platform for select Blue Cross NC employers and members.
With Teladoc, you get 24/7/365 access to board-certified doctors and on-demand, quality care, including:
- Urgent care
- PCPs (Teladoc does not replace your existing PCP)
- Mental health support for adults and teens ages 13-17
To contact Teledoc, use one of these options:
800-TELADOC (800-835-2362)
Download the app on Google Play or the App Store.
When is telehealth not the right answer?
While telehealth is a welcome alternative to an in-person visit, there are times when there's no replacement for face-to-face interaction with your provider.
Emergency medical issues
If you're in a life-threatening situation, such as a stroke, heart attack, or allergic reaction, you need to go to the emergency room immediately.
Other times when you'll need in-person care include head trauma, severe cuts, broken bones, or back pain accompanied by new weakness or tingling in one or both legs, to name a few.
- For medical emergencies, call 911.
- For mental health emergencies, call 988.
Physical examinations
While telehealth may feel like a modern miracle, it can't completely replace an in-person medical appointment. There are situations when your provider must be in the same room as you, when touch, listening, and looking is required.
Procedures, surgery, and lab work
Sometimes, your doctor may need you to get lab work done or have a diagnostic procedure. In cases like these, you'll need to go to the lab or diagnostic testing center.
Anytime you're having surgery, having pregnancy scans, or when your doctor says you need to be seen in person, you'll need to go to the provider's office.
Disclosures:
Telehealth services are subject to the terms and conditions of the member’s health plan, including benefits, limitations and exclusions. Telehealth services are not a substitute for emergency care.
Telehealth benefits are available on all plans either from Blue Cross NC or through the provider network. Blue Cross NC provides the telehealth program for your convenience and is not liable in any way for the goods or services received. Blue Cross NC reserves the right to discontinue or change the program at any time without prior notice. Decisions regarding your care should be made with the advice of a doctor. Depending on your plan, selected programs may not be available to you at this time. Check with Blue Cross NC Customer Service to determine your eligibility. Blue Cross NC has contracted with a third-party vendor independent from Blue Cross NC to bring you telehealth benefits.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in its health programs and activities. Learn more about our non-discrimination policy and no-cost services available to you.
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