PORT TOWNSEND — Jefferson Healthcare is expanding telehealth services by providing its patients with access to quality medical care from the comfort of their own homes.
Existing Jefferson Healthcare patients can receive virtual consultation from primary care provider Char Hallowell, a certified physician assistant, by texting or calling 360-379-8031 for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday appointments.
Telehealth appointments are scheduled for a variety of general concerns including cold and flu symptoms, headaches, and upset stomachs as well as care for such chronic ills as diabetes and high blood pressure.
“By expanding our telehealth services, to include a dedicated telehealth provider, we make healthcare more accessible and convenient for our patients, in many situations patients can schedule a visit the same day with Char,” said Jake Davidson, chief ancillary and support services officer and chief medical group officer.
”We believe this can improve patient outcomes and help us better serve the health needs of our patients,” he said.
Virtual visits provide convenient care through such common technologies as smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Visits are covered by most insurance plans, and patients can book appointments over the phone or via text.
The clinic has invested in the latest technology and has trained its medical staff .
Patients are emailed a hyperlink before the appointment, the patient checks in through the link, and a medical assistant tarts the appointment by confirming the patient’s identity and reviewing allergies and medications.
Hallowell may recommend further imaging or lab work for a full assessment. If needed, she can submit orders and the patient can drop into the lab or imaging. Results are sent directly to her and she will prescribe the next steps.
Hallowell is a graduate of the University of Washington, School of Medicine, Medex Northwest Physician Assistant Program.
She has been a part of the primary care team at the Sheridan Clinic since 2017. Before becoming a physician assistant, she was a physical therapist and worked with patients of all ages in both outpatient sports rehabilitation and the acute inpatient setting.
