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The need for urgent and emergent care doesn’t go away in the midst of a pandemic. Mount Nittany Medical Center’s emergency department is taking extra measures to ensure the safety of patients, staff and providers. In an effort to improve access and convenience, and serve our patients who may still be hesitant to come in for services, we also offer 24/7 virtual ER visits.
Our virtual ER is available to both new and existing patients of all ages for common acute conditions including: minor infections such as urinary tract infections, seasonal allergies, pink eye, upset stomach, rash/skin issues and other urgent care needs. Additionally, we are able to screen for COVID symptoms and, if indicated, order an outpatient COVID test to be scheduled at your convenience through the Mount Nittany Medical Center drive-through test collection site. Virtual visits are not recommended for life-threatening or disabling conditions, such as shortness of breath; abdominal or chest pain; numbness in the face, arm, or leg; excessive bleeding; coughing or vomiting blood; or mental confusion. If you believe you or a loved one is having a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1 or seek care at your nearest emergency medicine facility.
Virtual ER visits are available 24/7 with no appointment needed. Simply visit mountnittany.org/virtualER and click the link for “Start Virtual ER Visit.” You will check in, give permission to use your camera and microphone, register, and then wait for the provider to join you. You can use any device with audio and video capabilities—like your smartphone, tablet or computer. You will also need a high-speed internet connection.
A virtual ER visit is the same as an in-person visit, it is just conducted remotely via an internet-connected device where the patient and provider can see and hear one another. Making sure you have a strong internet connection and quality video and sound is important for a successful visit. Place your phone, tablet, or computer on a solid surface and make sure your camera is set up at eye level. Find a quiet, private place to complete the visit from and test your volume before the visit to make sure it’s loud enough for you to hear. Plug your device in to ensure it doesn’t run out of battery, use a wired connection if you can since it’s less prone to interruptions than wireless internet, and close any unnecessary programs or tabs you still have up in the background as they can impact your connection speed and video quality.
After discussing your concern, you and your provider will determine the appropriate treatment or next steps, which may include calling in a prescription to your pharmacy. If your case is too complex for an emergency telehealth visit and warrants a more acute work-up and treatment, your provider may recommend that you come to the emergency department in person for further evaluation.
Please don’t delay care because of concerns related to COVID-19. Getting the care you need, when you need it, matters. Virtual ER visits offer a safe, convenient option for common urgent care needs.
Brian Newcomb, MD, serves as department chair of the Mount Nittany Medical Center emergency department.
