When the pandemic hit, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina expanded virtual access to health care providers. But telehealth has benefits beyond the pandemic, as well.

While all Blue Cross NC members have had access to telehealth during COVID-19, many members have telehealth benefits under normal circumstances as well. This could include MDLive or Teladoc services.

With telehealth, you can meet with a doctor through a video chat on your mobile phone within minutes.

Telehealth benefits typically include evaluations and consultations for common health conditions and provider-to-provider consultations.

Members who receive health insurance through their employer and qualify for this benefit can speak to a board-certified doctor or pediatrician through secure online, video consults on their mobile phone, tablet or computer.

The video chats are a great option for minor health issues and non-emergencies when members can’t get in to see their regular doctor.

Video consultations are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. An appointment is not needed.

Telehealth does not replace your primary care doctor. It’s just an easier way to get care for common health problems.

Quality care 

Doctors are board-certified doctors who are HIPAA-compliant and your personal health information is never shared with your employer

Convenience

Video consults are convenient, easy-to-use and if you need a prescription, the doctor could electronically send it to a pharmacy of your choice.

Savings

Telehealth visits save you time and money from higher-cost care like the ER and urgent care that involve long wait times.

Does this sound like something you could use? If so, be prepared. Don’t wait until you need telehealth to create and activate an account.

• Don’t have an account? Register for a Blue Connect account. Keep your Blue Cross NC membership card handy.
• Don’t know your login credentials? Don’t worry. Click forgot password or forgot user ID in the member login box.

You can also call your benefits administrator or call the number on the back of your card.