Now offering virtual visits for non-urgent appointments
Recent government action has expanded telehealth coverage for patients nationwide. Simply put, this means that you don’t have to wait to schedule face-to-face, non-urgent appointments with our expert ophthalmologists. By using chat technology (like Apple FaceTime) on a smartphone or tablet, qualifying patients can schedule a live interactive visit with one of our providers. Please be aware that these are billable encounters just as if you had come into the office.
“Northwest Eye is proud to offer alternatives to in-office visits during this uncertain time,” said Christina Peterson, Senior Vice President of Operations. “Our team is thrilled to be able to provide care via smartphone or tablet chat technology. Northwest Eye is following best-practices to ensure patient privacy and security and look forward to serving the needs of the community.”
When should I visit the office in person?
Our virtual services aren’t right for everyone. We recommend you schedule an urgent clinic visit if you have:
R – Red Eyes
S – Sensitivity
V – Vision Loss
P – Pain
For more information on how we are keeping patients safe during in-office visits, please click here.
When can I use virtual services?
If you aren’t experiencing any issues stated above, you may be a candidate for evaluation using our virtual services. Our virtual visits include nearly all types of non-urgent eye care needs – including medical management of certain eye conditions. We will work with you to identify appropriate next steps of care.
Technology
During the COVID-19 nationwide public health emergency, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is allowing virtual health visits through everyday technologies. Our scheduling team will work with our patients to confirm if individual patient chat technology is approved and compatible with Northwest Eye’s technology.
CMS is not allowing any public live-streaming, this includes the following applications.
• Facebook Live
• Twitch
• TikTok
Tips for online safety
Your safety is our highest priority, both in terms of health and your online security. Please be advised that when using any third-party application you may potentially introduce privacy risks and should use encryption and privacy modes when using such applications.
Schedule your teleophthalmology appointment today by calling us at 763-416-7600.
