Telemedicine is Filling the Healthcare Void During the COVID-19 Pandemic
At CopperPoint, we care about the health of injured workers. During these extraordinary times, it may be hard for many of them to get medical care and rehabilitation services in person. We’ve been working with our medical partners so injured workers can have continuity of care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Supporting our injured workers with telehealth options is something we’ve been doing for a long time. Now, we are looking to expand the program even further. While medical treatment may still be available in the traditional office setting, we’re offering another option, too: telemedicine and telerehab for those who are unable or reluctant to receive in-clinic care.
The 4-1-1 on Telemedicine and Telerehab
Telemedicine uses technology to connect health care providers and patients to facilitate remote care. With telemedicine, doctors and patients meet via videoconference, phone calls and other digital methods.
Using these technologies, doctors can provide an initial diagnosis for many common injuries, including:
- First-degree burns
- Abrasions
- Contusions
- Rashes
- Sprains and strains of the back, neck and other areas of the body
- Tendonitis and other repetitive-use injuries
- Bloodborne pathogen (BBP) exposures
- Other minor injuries
Doctors can also conduct injury rechecks during telemedicine visits.
Likewise, telerehab is a branch of telemedicine that connects patients with rehabilitation providers using the same technologies described above. This enables patients to continue with their physical therapy and rehab sessions virtually.
The Benefits of Telemedicine and Telerehab
Telemedicine and telerehab offer many benefits to injured workers. First, they’re easy to access and use. These remote options enable patients to access quality care from the comfort of their own homes without driving to a clinic or waiting to see a provider.
During this current pandemic, telehealth also offers patients the opportunity to receive care virtually, thereby limiting the risk of exposure to the coronavirus. This is especially helpful for injured workers who may have other health conditions that put them at greater risk of severe illness if they contract COVID-19.
In addition, telehealth options also benefit injured workers who live in rural areas and may not have access to nearby care.
Telemedicine Don’ts
While telemedicine is a convenient way to receive treatment for minor injuries and to continue a rehab program, for serious or life-threatening conditions, call 911 or seek other emergency medical assistance immediately.
Telehealth Options Through CopperPoint
Telemedicine and telerehab options through CopperPoint vary by state and across the CopperPoint Family of Insurance Companies. To learn more about options in your area for injured workers, contact a member of your service team, including your claims adjuster or call 1-800-221-0152.
Together—and through the power of technology—injured workers have access to the quality care they deserve.
CopperPoint Insurance Companies is a western-based super regional commercial insurance company and a leading provider of workers’ compensation and commercial insurance solutions. With an expanded line of insurance products and a growing 10 state footprint in the western United States, CopperPoint is in a strong position to meet the evolving needs of our brokers, agents and customers.
To learn more about our insurance products and find resources to better manage your risks, explore our website or contact your independent insurance agent.
