How to Use Telemedicine for Your ObGyn Needs

As your primary ObGyn resource, Women's Health Connecticut and its 250 health care providers want to let you know that you can continue to access us for necessary obstetrical or gynecological services.

There are two ways in which you can access us: by phone, with a telemedicine appointment, or in our offices, by specific appointment. To access either option, simply call your individual physician's office for assistance. You can use our web site at www.womenshealthct.com to find your provider's contact information.

To limit COVID-19 exposure, we encourage you to speak with one of our care providers before you go to a walk-in or emergency room setting.

If you've been wondering "what is telemedicine?" here's more information on how to use it for your ObGyn needs.

What is a telemedicine appointment?

• Telemedicine uses technology, like video chat, on your phone or computer to provide supportive healthcare at a distance. Through the use of telemedicine, our ObGyns can continue to provide quality care remotely.
• Telemedicine appointments can help you avoid a trip to the doctors’ office during the COVID-19 outbreak and ensure that you receive care from the convenience of your home.
• Appointments are similar to an in-person appointment, but you and your provider will chat on a video platform with a camera. It may be different from talking in-person, and your provider will handle the appointment in a way that will make you feel most comfortable.

When conditions can an ObGyn manage using telemedicine?

• Obstetric visits, postpartum check-ups, new patient visits, and gynecological problems (ie. Postpartum depression, gestational diabetes monitoring, hypertension and preeclampsia monitoring, well-woman exam follow up, family planning and preconception care).
• Discussing sensitive topics like STD-screening results, Pap test results, and biopsies scheduling and results.
• Follow up appointments to check on progress after a procedure has been completed.
• Initial consultations for future surgeries in order to ensure scheduling as soon as nonessential medical procedure restrictions lift.
• Answer your questions and concerns.

How do I set up a telemedicine appointment with my physician?

• Telemedicine appointments must be scheduled by calling your physician’s office, just as a regular appointment. The office will let you know if they currently scheduling telemedicine appointments.
• Learn how you can create an account on the telemedicine platform we are using here.
• Once you have secured an appointment time, we will contact you to initiate the telemedicine session.
• You will need a cell phone, tablet, desktop or laptop to conduct your appointment. Please be sure it is sufficiently charged and has a camera and microphone.  If you are not completely familiar with technology, you may want to ask a family member or friend to help you set-up.

How much do telemedicine appointments cost and do you accept insurance for virtual appointments?

• Virtual appointments function just like a regular doctor’s visit. Your insurance will be charged and you may have a co-pay or deductible. There are some insurance companies that are waiving co-pays during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to keep patients at home and safe. Please contact your insurance carrier for more information.

Is telemedicine HIPAA compliant?

• Our telemedicine platform, Spruce Health is HIPAA
• Any communication that occurs entirely on Spruce (app-to-app messaging with providers or patients, or telemedicine within a secure messaging thread) is secure and encrypted.