Pub. 1 2021 Issue 1

13 By Teresa Liter, SCL Health Montana Region S CL Health has been a partner of the Montana Auto Dealer Association Trust since 2015. We are proud to offer medical resources to ensure members can access the health care they need, when and where they need it. Last year, the where became more important than ever before. While we implemented rigorous safety measures in our three hospitals and more than 50 clinics across the state, we also made sure patients could access health care providers without leaving home. Virtual Care From the Comfort of Home When you can see your doctor as often as you need to, with- out the challenges of getting into a clinic, you can practice better management of your medication, lifestyle, and any chronic conditions you might have, leading to better health. Virtual care, sometimes referred to as telehealth, is a way for patients to consult with their provider by online correspon - dence or video. SCL Health offers two virtual care options for patients — e-visits and video visits . They are available to any adult in Montana and are the most convenient way to get quick, affordable care for many common health issues, like allergies, coughs, rashes and pink eye. A patient can even be prescribed medication through virtual care. For e-visits , the process is similar to when you come into your doctor’s office. You’ll start by answering an online questionnaire about your medical history. Then type in your symptoms, upload photos if needed, and receive a diagnosis or further recommendation in about 10 minutes. For video visits , you will see an SCL Health provider from your smartphone or tablet, and you will receive care instruc- tions as if you were in the office. Video visits can be sched- uled with your established care provider, or you can get a video visit with the next available SCL Health provider. Virtual care is available from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., 365 days per year. To learn more, visit SCLHealth.org/virtual-care. Importance of a Primary Care Provider If you haven’t seen a doctor in a while or don’t have a primary care provider (PCP), now may be a good time to select a PCP. Your PCP is the first person you go to for health questions and concerns. They get to know you and your family’s history and health needs to provide optimal health care and guidance. With clinics located throughout Montana and virtual care from the comfort of your own home, SCL Health has brought together outstanding clinical professionals who can help you achieve and maintain your best health. You can see your PCP for: • Wellness check-ups • Age-specific preventive screenings and tests • Immunizations, such as flu shots or vaccinations • Chronic condition management for conditions such as asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure and COPD • Sports and school physicals • Fevers, sore throats, earaches or sinus pain • Care for colds, flu and other illnesses • Sprains or strains • Minor burns, rashes, cuts and scrapes • Diet and exercise planning Visit SCLHealth.org/Montana to select a PCP and schedule online 24 hours a day. Thank you for trusting SCL Health with you and your fam- ily’s health care needs. We wish you and your loved ones a healthy and happy new year. SAFE AND CONVENIENT HEALTH CARE FOR YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY