What is Telemedicine?
The University of Virginia Health System offers telemedicine facilitated services at locations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Through conveniently located partner healthcare facilities we offer access to our University of Virginia specialists regardless of geographic boundaries. The specialist and your doctor will work together to decide the best treatment plan for you.
How does my local doctor work with the telemedicine program?
Telemedicine involves using television monitors, special computerized equipment and broadband telecommunications linkages that allows you and the specialist see and talk to each other in real time. Your local physician may send medical data, pictures, x-ray images and other important information directly to the specialist at the University of Virginia Health System. After reviewing the information, provided, the specialist will interact with, and examine the patient and send a report which includes diagnosis and treatment recommendations back to your referring physician. Your own doctor will treat you and provide follow-up care.
How do I benefit from using Telemedicine services?
By using telemedicine, patients can enjoy timely access to specialty care without the burden and expense of long distance travel for healthcare.
How much does it cost?
Many insurance companies cover the cost of clinical services provided through telemedicine linkages. Virginia Medicaid reimburses for telemedicine services provided anywhere in the Commonwealth. Medicare covers services provided to patients from rural areas. Thanks to a generous grant from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Virginia, if you are uninsured or if your insurance provider does not provide coverage for telemedicine services, those services will be underwritten when care is provided through the telemedicine program from anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
How can I schedule a Telemedicine appointment?
If your local doctor recommends that you need to see a specialist, his or her office staff can contact the nearest telemedicine UVa telemedicine partner site who will arrange the appointment for you. When you arrive for your appointment, a nurse or other specially trained healthcare provider will assist you with the consultation. You will meet with and be evaluated by a University of Virginia specialist and return to your local physician for care.
Patient Testimonials
“At first it felt sort of strange to talk to a doctor on a TV monitor. But in just a few minutes, I felt right at home. It was just like a regular doctor’s visit. I like knowing that what I say is private, too. And the cost---no more than my regular doctor’s visit.”
- Telemedicine Patient
"Driving to UVa to see a specialist used to take me five to six hours. Through Telemedicine, I can have my follow up appointments with the same specialist at my
local medical center."
- Dermatology Patient
"Using Telemedicine services, I no longer have to travel to Charlottesville, stay in a hotel and miss time away from work
and my family."
- Hepatology Patient
"I feel comfortable referring my patients to the physicians at the University of Virginia. I know that my patients will receive a comprehensive evaluation."
-Referring physician