Atlantic, IA — Atlantic Medical Center, RHC (AMC) offers walk-in care six days a week, appointments five days a week, and now offers telehealth appointments for patients via smart phone, tablet, or home computer.

“We are committed to making sure our community has access to healthcare when they need it. We’re thrilled to offer telehealth appointments in addition to our walk-in care and traditional appointments,” said CCHS Chief Clinic Administrator Tammy Bireline.

“Yes, we’re in the midst of a pandemic, but for most people, we still have routine medical needs, many of which can’t wait. Telehealth is the perfect bridge between getting the health care you need and being able to stay at home,” said Bireline.

Over the past week, multiple AMC providers have piloted telehealth appointments with patients.

“The providers and patients are very happy with the way that telehealth visits have gone so far. The actual process is amazingly easy to use,” said Dr. Elaine Berry.

All providers at Atlantic Medical Center, RHC or its satellite locations, can see patients via telehealth. While telehealth isn’t the right choice for all appointments, it is a great option for patients who are due for follow-up care, patients who have chronic health issues, patients who need prescription refills, or very minor acute issues such as rashes, pink eye, small wounds, etc.

“Patients can call and ask to schedule a telehealth appointment, or some providers may recommend it,” said Bireline.

Patients will need to use a smart phone, tablet, or computer that has a camera, microphone, and speakers. If patients have a home blood pressure machine or oximeter, they should have those close at hand in case they are needed during the telehealth appointment.

When the appointment is scheduled, admissions staff will verify either a mobile phone number or an email address for the patient. The patient will then receive either text or email instructions.

Most insurance companies will pay for telehealth visits in the same manner that they pay for a regular office visit, and your usual copayments or coinsurance will apply.

For prenatal appointments and well child visits, the Anita and Griswold Medical Centers are designated well-care clinics staffed by Dr. Angela Weppler and Jessica Jackson, ARNP. “These clinics continue to go well, and it’s a great way to make sure kids are staying on track with their check-ups and immunizations. While school is out, this is also a good time to use the well-care clinics to get kindergarten physicals done,” said Bireline.