TeleHealth—What Exactly Does it Mean?

Since the onset of the Stay At Home/Safer at Home orders to protect us from spreading the COVID-19 virus, you have probably heard the term TeleHealth or TeleMedicine used more and more frequently. And you may be wondering — just what does this mean?

TeleHealth is defined as “a healthcare delivery model that allows patients to remotely access doctors”, and this includes Audiologists. Many offices are closed or working with 50% staff, and in general, people are hoping to avoid face-to-face interactions right now. TeleHealth offers a HIPAA compliant option for you to speak directly with your Audiologist. This is how we can continue to provide exceptional care for hearing loss, without endangering ourselves, our patients, or our community.

Here is how it works:

• You call to schedule your appointment with the office as you would for an in-person appointment.
• After your appointment is set up, your doctor’s office emails you a link.
• Simply click on that link from within the email to open your HIPAA Compliant session with your healthcare professional.

Many, although not all, hearing devices can also be reprogrammed using online troubleshooting programs. Call your provider to discuss options specific to your devices if you are experiencing problems. And as always, if you need any help with that, we’re only a phone call away—just reach out!

Taking care of your hearing loss is always important, but with the ongoing stresses COVID-19 continues to impose on our communities, it’s becoming crucial. Difficulty with hearing can often lead to isolation, and the forced solitude this pandemic has thrust upon us makes it worse than ever. So be sure to take care of yourself—your well-being is our priority.