Beginning April 4 Greenville Health System’s patients will be able to access care via a computer, smartphone or tablet.
GHS patients experiencing minor care illnesses such as bladder infections, sore throats, ear pain and sinus infections can be served through a SmartExam. The telehealth visit guides patients through a comprehensive online interview to describe their symptoms.
Any necessary prescriptions will be sent to the patient’s pharmacy of choice. Patients logging in for a SmartExam will be charged a $20 consultation fee that can be paid with a credit or debit card at the time of service. A GHS provider will diagnose the patient and offer a treatment plan within an hour, according to GHS.
“Work and family demands sometimes make it difficult to visit a doctor, but SmartExams will give GHS patients an opportunity to receive a treatment plan within minutes,” said Dr. Sandra Hardee, the initiative’s medical director. “This is a safe, evidence-based service that provides our patients with an important option to conveniently find relief.”
The service asks questions that are specific to the patient’s condition and adapt to the patient’s responses. Some conditions permit or require the patient to upload photographs to assist with diagnosis. A provider will review the patient’s information and provide a diagnosis and treatment plan in a summary following a visit.
Parents can also use the service for pediatric patients between the ages of 3 months and 18 years old. Children’s conditions will be routed to providers specializing in pediatrics.
“Children usually get sick at odd times, including the hours after work and school, which can make it difficult to visit a doctor,” said Dr. George Haddad, vice chair of GHS’ pediatric clinical operations. “This new service will give families a chance to address concerns with a pediatric provider that can offer the best treatment plan for their child.”
Established GHS patients will be able to use the service by visiting ghs.org/smartexam or logging into their GHS MyChart app. GHS patients can receive a MyChart account within a few minutes of visiting mychart.ghs.org. The service will be available to anyone seeking GHS care.
SmartExams will be available 24 hours a day and responses will be provided between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. seven days a week.
Patients who describe more severe symptoms will be asked for a phone number where a nurse can reach them for more comprehensive triage and potential referral for face-to-face care.