What equipment do I need?

The referring office or facility needs to have an ultrasound and ultrasound technician capable of doing OB scans. This means the referring office or facility will generate a technical fee for billing purposes. Marshall OB/GYN will purchase and place the telehealth tower in the clinic at no cost to the referring clinic.

What are the technology and connection requirements for telehealth?

An internet connection – broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE) is required. The referring office will also need speakers and a microphone – built-in or USB plug-in or wireless Bluetooth, along with a webcam or HD webcam - built-in or USB plug-in OR a HD cam or HD camcorder with video capture card. Most operating systems are supported along with a number of mobile and tablet devices. For more specific information, contact the sub-specialty coordinator.

What program do you use for telehealth? Can you ensure HIPAA requirements are being met?

For telehealth, Marshall OB/GYN uses Zoom, which has HIPAA compliance as long as the referring office uses proper credentialing to access the appropriate portal.

Who do I contact about scheduling?

The sub-specialty coordinator is the point person for scheduling. She will contact the patient directly about registering and scheduling the appointment.

Do I need to get prior authorizations for telehealth appointments?

No, the sub-specialty coordinator will complete any prior authorizations needed for the consultation.

What information will I need to share about the patient?

The referring office needs to share the demographics and pertinent clinical information about the patient with the sub-specialty coordinator.

What should I expect the day of the appointment?

The coordinator will pre-plan some time with the ultrasound technician and/or appropriate person(s) to ensure the equipment is working properly. The coordinator and/or MFM physician will start the Zoom web conference, which the ultrasound technician or their designee will then join. The MFM physician will introduce him/herself and instruct the technician to start the scan. Any images for the chart will be screen shot and saved to the patient chart in Allscripts. At the end of the exam, the MFM physician will discuss any findings and next steps with the patient and, if preferred, the referring physician. The visit will conclude and all documentation will in EMR will occur as usual. The coordinator will ensure that the referring physician receives the reports from the MFM consult visit.

I am having IT problems. Who do I call?

The subspecialty coordinator will assist in getting the right resources for IT troubleshooting.