Peoria, Ill.-based OSF Healthcare has launched a virtual urgent care service that patients can use to see providers from the hospital system during their summer vacations.
With the new feature, patients complete an online interview that lasts between five and 15 minutes, and their answers are reviewed within an hour. An OSF Healthcare provider might ask more questions by chat or connect via a video visit.
"It's the mom with multiple children who are sleeping and [she thinks] 'I have a sick kiddo who I cannot console, and what do I do?'" said Kate Barth, vice president and chief nursing officer of on-demand services for OSF OnCall Urgent Care, in a June 24 health system news release. "Seeking out virtual urgent care in those options is such a great opportunity to connect with a provider who typically would serve you in that urgent care setting."
Patients with certain needs, such as lab tests or care for broken bones, will still need to be seen in person. And people with emergencies including chest pain, severe abdominal pain or difficulty breathing should go to the emergency department or call 911.
An online interview costs $25, while a video visit is $50. Both are covered by some private insurance plans. The virtual visits, however, are not being reimbursed by Medicare.