Well visits are designed to give patients the opportunity to talk with their doctors about how to improve their health and prevent disease. Given the importance of these preventive care visits, Fallon is covering well visits via telehealth with no member cost-sharing until regulatory guidance is rescinded or until Governor Baker’s Emergency Order is ended, whichever is first.
Being able to have well visits virtually helps people keep up with their necessary care, although some aspects of a well visit, such as immunizations, lab services or certain screenings, need to be provided in person rather than by telehealth.
Remember, Fallon members can access telehealth services from all network providers that are offering these services. Members who have the Teladoc benefit can also use that service. Fallon is waiving all member cost-sharing for COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 related medically necessary telehealth services until regulatory guidance is rescinded or until the Massachusetts state of emergency is terminated, whichever occurs first. Members who have the NurseConnect benefit can also use this channel to receive medical services or advice at no cost.
Increasing public interest in telehealth
It’s important for people to continue to get the health care services they need, including urgent or emergency care. Yet, many are hesitating to do so.
Citing concerns about the virus, nearly one-third of U.S. consumers have dramatically changed their use of traditional health care services, according to a new national survey by the Alliance of Community Health Plans and conducted by Leede Research. The study also shows 41% of people have delayed in-person care, with many embracing virtual care as an alternative.
Fallon encourages members to seek the care they need—whether it’s by telehealth or, when appropriate, in a hospital or urgent care center.
