Published on: April 22, 2020
Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay (IDATB) is now offering Telemedicine for certain infectious disease services and treatments. We are delighted to embrace this new and ever-expanding technology in order to create a convenient, safe alternative for our patients. During this unprecedented time, as we all adjust to our lives being upended by the Covid-19 pandemic, there has never been a more appropriate time to utilize Telemedicine for the residents of Tampa Bay and beyond.
The Rise of Telemedicine
Telemedicine (TM) has gained considerable acceptance and popularity with patients and providers in recent years. “Telehealth” technology is becoming more widely available as a means to deliver healthcare services due to its ability to eliminate distance barriers thus increasing access to care. In addition, some studies suggest that TM has led to improved clinical outcomes and cost-savings by reducing hospital admissions and the need for other acute healthcare services. For patients with chronic diseases, many claim that the utilization of TM has improved quality of life, clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction.
Caring for Infectious Disease Patients through Telemedicine
Historically, in the case of Infectious Disease care, TM has effectively bridged the gap between patients in remote areas and Infectious Disease specialists who typically practice in larger urban areas. The use of TM has expanded the treatment options for patients with mild to moderate infections beyond prior distance barriers. In addition to improving clinical outcomes and reduced health care costs, TM also facilitates opportunities for medical education for providers working in remote areas.
Now we find ourselves amid a global pandemic that has effectively quarantined most of the world to their homes. The unprecedented impacts, both physically and economically that the spread of Covid-19 has had on our nation has begun to reshape how businesses function including Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay.
Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay Introduces Telemedicine
We are pleased to announce that we have introduced telemedicine as a way for our patients in Tampa Bay and beyond to gain access to quality care from the privacy and safety of their own homes. It is one of the many ways we aim to serve our patients who are seeking help in managing the infectious diseases they are struggling with. Video visits allow you to receive care comparable to what you receive in the office, without the risk of being exposed to the public during this time of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As always, our staff is committed to providing the highest quality of care for the management of simple infections to the treatment of the most unusual of tropical diseases whether it be in one of our three offices in the Tampa Bay area or through the use of a Telemedicine visit.
Frequently asked questions regarding our telemedicine services (FAQ):
- Can I be seen as a new patient in a video visit? Due to the uncommon circumstances created by the current Covid-19 pandemic, regulatory agencies have approved new patient visits via telemedicine. Call us at (813) 251-8444 to have your appointment scheduled.
- Does my insurance cover a video visit? Video visits are covered by nearly all major medical insurances including Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Many plans require no co-payment. Please check with your insurer for details.
- Can I still be seen by my doctor in the office? We are still available to see you in the office. However, to protect against the spread of infectious disease, we are conducting phone call screenings of ALL patients prior to in-office visits. Please visit our Covid-19 information page for more details.
We are all eager to get back to normal and we know that you are too. During this time, we hope you will consider using our telemedicine services. It will also be available once business resumes as usual providing you with a convenient, alternative way to have a visit with your doctor.
To schedule your telemedicine appointment, give us a call at (813) 251-8444. Whether in person or by video, we cannot wait to see you soon.
