As wildfires continue to destroy parts of California and force thousands to flee their homes, several telehealth vendors have stepped up to provide affected individuals access to free healthcare services.
Here are three vendors that are offering displaced Californians virtual healthcare services:
This list is not exhaustive. Companies are listed in alphabetical order.
1. Doctor on Demand is offering video visits at no cost to all affected individuals through Aug. 19. Physicians on the Doctor on Demand platform are available 24/7 to treat patients suffering from respiratory conditions, skin and eye irritation, and throat and sinus issues, and can prescribe or refill necessary medications. Doctor on Demand also has capabilities to address patients' mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression, which may stem from the fires.
2. Under its program MDLivecares, MDLive is offering free virtual health visits to affected individuals via telephone or video conference. The company has set up a dedicated hotline to help patients schedule their first appointments.
3. Teladoc is providing free round-the-clock telehealth visits to affected individuals for conditions like sinus problems, respiratory infections, allergies, cold and flu symptoms, and many other non-emergency illnesses that can be effectively diagnosed and treated via telehealth. When medically necessary, Teladoc's board-certified, state-licensed physicians can also prescribe medications.