Ozarks Healthcare is expanding access to its virtual walk-in clinic by offering patients a new way to connect with a health care provider online without needing to create or log into a patient portal account.
Patients can now access the virtual service through their existing Ozarks Healthcare Patient Portal or directly via a new link on the health system's website. The service is available from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at www.ozarkshealthcare.com/virtual-care.
The virtual clinic allows patients to consult with a medical provider from their home or workplace for common, non-emergency illnesses and minor health concerns. Conditions frequently treated include allergies, cold and flu symptoms, urinary tract infections, rashes and pink eye.
“We’re always looking for ways to make health care more convenient and accessible for the communities we serve,” said Terence Farrell, president and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare. “Adding another avenue for patients to receive care makes it even easier to connect with a provider when the need arises.”
For patients like Cassandra Mooneyham, the service offers a way to receive medical attention without disrupting the workday. She recently used the virtual walk-in care during her lunch break, avoiding a trip to a physical clinic and a physical waiting room.
“I didn’t have to sit or be in line or leave work, and I was able to get my prescription to the main campus and labs done quickly versus if I had to go to the clinic and wait first,” Mooneyham said.
During a virtual visit, patients connect with the next available provider to discuss symptoms, ask questions and receive prescriptions, referrals or follow-up care instructions. If necessary, the provider may recommend a traditional in-person visit for further evaluation.
The health system accepts most insurance plans for the virtual service, and the self-pay rate is $80 per session. Virtual walk-in care is intended for non-emergency medical concerns only; individuals experiencing a medical emergency should call 911 or seek immediate emergency care.
