Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts’ (Blue Cross) members can now use their smartphone, tablet, or computer for a real-time, secure telehealth visit with a doctor or therapist. For eligible members, telehealth is offered through the Blue Cross provider network and through the national medical network associated with its technology partner, American Well, an independent company.
“We live in an on-demand world. Many people are used to using their phones for just about anything. The new telehealth benefit helps members see a doctor when they want, where they want and receive the expert information they need,” said Pat Gilligan, Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Product at Blue Cross. “We are trying to make the health care experience easy, convenient, and affordable. It’s all about putting our members first.”
How It Works
Whether it’s after hours or you don’t feel like getting out of bed, members can see a doctor from the comfort of their own home. It’s easy as well as convenient and can help avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency room. A telehealth visit is simple and secure. Members can:
Check with their clinician to see if they use telehealth or use Blue Cross’ Find a Doctor tool to see which of providers offer telehealth.
Visit www.bluecrossma.com/telehealth to connect to the national network of online doctors and therapists, powered by American Well’s consumer service Amwell.
“As the largest Massachusetts state health plan to offer telehealth, Blue Cross joins a growing list of national healthcare leaders partnering with American Well to extend care and enable member access more easily,” said Danielle Russella, President, Customer Solutions, American Well. “Even in Massachusetts, where we are surrounded by world-renowned hospitals, there are still barriers that place limitations on care delivery – such as the inability to see a doctor quickly, travel costs, time off from work, illness, and disability. We are proud to support Blue Cross of Massachusetts in its efforts to make high-quality medical care more convenient and accessible.”
Telehealth Expansion
This innovative new benefit expands Blue Cross’ use of telehealth. Earlier this year, Blue Cross began offering telehealth through a pilot with several physician practices, as well as Blue Cross nurse care managers. The program resulted in rave reviews from both members and clinicians.
Lisa Johnson, a Blue Cross member, uses telehealth with the nurse care management team. The team works with her to regulate her blood sugar and improve her diet. She uses Blue Cross’ application on her cell phone to connect with the team every few weeks to update them on her doctor visits and labs. “Telehealth makes it easy for me to connect with my care team, who have caring hearts and are concerned about my health. They are encouraging and uplifting – they make me feel like extended family. My condition has definitely improved since I began using telehealth, and I would definitely recommend it to friends and family.”
Date: March 28, 2016