During the COVID-19 pandemic, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) has adopted a temporary telehealth platform for many existing patients as a way to better maintain social distancing. Patients whose scheduled visits meet the criteria for telehealth are contacted by their physician’s staff and given information on how to get connected.
Until recently, there has been no telehealth option for a patient who does not have an established provider at PMC, or who is a candidate for an urgent care visit. However, there is now the possibility of a telehealth option for patients considering visiting one of PMC’s Urgent Care centers.
“We are thrilled to be able to extend a telehealth option to many of our patients who would normally visit one of our Urgent Care centers, such as our Walmart Clinic in Pikeville,” explained PMC Senior Vice President and COO of Physician Practices Melissa Thacker. “We understand that patients may still not be comfortable going into public places due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This gives many of them the option of being seen without having to leave their home or vehicle.”
A dedicated phone line has been established for patients who would normally walk into a clinic to be seen by a medical provider. Patients are asked to call 606-437-0123 and speak to someone about their medical issue.
If their concern meets the criteria, the patient will be given instructions for setting up a telehealth visit that day from their home computer, smartphone or tablet.
Patients considering walking into an urgent care clinic are encouraged to call 606-437-0123 to see if they qualify for a telehealth visit.
For more information about how Pikeville Medical Center is addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, visit pikevillehospital.org/covid19/.
