Virtual primary care visits increase access and convenience for patients

Virtual care continues to grow in popularity for patients and providers. Almost 9 in 10 healthcare leaders are seeing the positive impact of virtual care in addressing staff shortages in their organization. Plus, 32% of healthcare leaders say virtual care enables them to expand specialist care to underserved communities. Continue reading to learn more about virtual primary care options at Mass General Brigham Health Plan.

Our members at Mass General Brigham Health Plan can access alternative options for primary care through virtual practices. These virtual practices allow members to get the same high-quality primary care they’d receive in an office delivered online. Virtual and hybrid practices—ones that offer virtual and in-person care—are great options for individuals looking to start a primary care relationship quickly or prefer to receive care online from the comfort and convenience of their own home.

A wide range of care is available via video, phone, or chat for a faster, sometimes more convenient experience. Providers can coordinate in-person care for X-rays, bloodwork, and minor procedures. They can also provide referrals to in-network specialists.

Some healthcare needs that can be met virtually include:

• Chronic condition management
• COVID-19
• Flu or other related illnesses
• Mental healthcare concerns
• Preventive care
• Urgent care
• Women’s health
• Workplace health

What virtual care options exist for members?

You can access virtual and hybrid care if you’re a Mass General Brigham Health Plan member. This gives new patients more access to primary care. Let’s dig into each option:

Firefly Health: Described as “primary care that fits your life,” Firefly Health is a virtual primary care practice that offers care where and when you need it. It has the ability to handle most primary care needs virtually. This includes everything from wellness and preventive care to chronic condition management. That’s why Firefly is an affordable care option for many.

Carbon Health: This hybrid practice prides itself on “a friendlier healthcare experience, without the membership fees.” It makes it a good option for those seeking more affordable care. They offer same-day appointment availability. Plus, they can send prescriptions straight to your pharmacy or doorstep. Carbon Health offers individualized care anytime, anywhere. Their brick-and-mortar locations are in Brighton, West Roxbury, Boston, Framingham, Swampscott, and Beverly.

One Medical: Like Carbon Health, Amazon’s One Medical is a hybrid practice that promises a seamless healthcare experience. They cover physicals, chronic care, and mental health. They have national offices and several across Boston, Newton, and Cambridge. One Medical is a great option for anyone living in the city. This practice has an annual membership fee that is not typically covered by your medical insurance

While virtual care might not be right for everyone, it remains a wonderful option for those who need to establish a new primary care relationship quickly or prefer to receive care online from the comfort and convenience of their own home.

For more information about each of these virtual practices, please contact them directly by accessing the website links in the above descriptions.

To learn more about member benefits, visit mgbhp.org/benefits.

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