Samaritan Expands Telehealth Options for 2025 to Include Primary Care & More November 19, 2024 Samaritan Health Plans is offering expanded telehealth options to Medicare Advantage and Employer Group members in 2025. Beginning next year, telehealth appointments will be a covered benefit for a number of services including primary care, mental health, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and other specialties. The goal is to give health plan members better access to their primary care physician (PCP) and specialists. A virtual visit with a PCP can save members the travel, wait time and cost associated with a visit to the emergency room or urgent care clinic for non-emergency health concerns. A member can typically see a clinician via phone or video within minutes. Telehealth PCPs can also assist with referrals to in-person specialist appointments. There are several other advantages for those who take advantage of virtual telehealth services, including: Convenience: Patients can avoid waiting rooms and save time on travel, especially those who live in rural or underserved areas and those with limited mobility, chronic pain and transportation issues. Cost savings: Patients can avoid travel costs such as gas, parking and public transportation as well as income lost when taking time off work for appointments. More privacy and comfort: Many people feel less anxious, less stigmatized and more comfortable receiving care from home in a familiar environment. Less exposure to illness and infections: Patients can limit the need to go to healthcare facilities where they may be exposed to contagious diseases. This is particularly beneficial for those with compromised immune systems. To learn more, see the plan coverages for doctor office visits or review the Teledoc fact sheet (English). For more information, call our Broker Support Team at 541-768-7578 or email [email protected].
