Northwest Pediatrics is here for you!

Introducing Telemedicine Services

Telemedicine is a virtual doctor visit via an internet platform that allows us to care for our patients in the safety of their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. While a screen or phone interaction will never replace an in-person visit, we are doing our best to continue to provide excellent care during these unprecedented times. We have chosen an easy, accessible platform, Anytime Pediatrics, to help us serve our Northwest Pediatrics community.

Just as this pandemic is constantly changing and evolving, the way we use Telemedicine may change as well. Please keep in mind the information below is subject to change. We are committed to posting any updates (such as hours of availability, billing, etc.) on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I schedule a Telemedicine visit?

Scheduling a Telemedicine visit is currently the same as scheduling a regular visit. You can call during our business hours (M-F, 8-5) and follow the phone prompts. A scheduler or RN will give you an assigned visit time.

For fastest service, please preregister through the Anytime Pediatrics platform prior to calling for an appointment. The Northwest Pediatrics code is 2230. You can download the “Anytime Pediatrics” app from the App Store or Google play store. You may also use the web based version on your computer, but it works best on Google Chrome.

If you do not currently have any medical needs, we still recommend families download the app and preregister at any time for ease of scheduling future visits.

Do I have to have special equipment for a Telemedicine visit?

No. Fortunately, you can participate in a visit via any phone or computer with internet access. A device with a camera is optimal as a visual assessment is helpful, however, a telephone visit is an option. Simply download the app or register via the portal. Once downloaded, please fill out the patient demographic information for your child.

Who will I see during my Telemedicine visit?

Northwest Pediatrics is comprised of 8 physicians. Ideally, you will be able to see your primary Pediatrician. However, if they are unavailable, the doctor(s) on call will be happy to help your child. Check out doctor profiles here.

What does a Telemedicine visit cost?

We are very grateful that nearly all insurance companies have expanded their coverage to include virtual visits while stay-in-home orders are recommended. Many visits are fully paid by insurance companies (including Soonercare) and some copays have been waived. When you call to schedule your appointment, our staff will ensure that we have your updated insurance information. Self-pay is an option as well. Given that a virtual visit is held to the same standards as an in-person visit, billing is identical. Check with your specific carrier for details.

What can I do to prepare for a Telemedicine visit?

Please check out the Telemedince Tips graphic at the bottom of the FAQs to help you prepare for a visit. Having the child’s weight and temperature ahead of time is helpful. Please also have the name and address of a pharmacy in mind. Having a flashlight handy is a good idea, too.

How long does a visit typically last?

Visit length depends on the complexity of the problem at hand. Typical times range from 10-20 minutes but may be longer as needed.

Can medications be prescribed during a Telemedicine visit?

Yes, if needed. While Telemedicine is a tremendous way to care for patients out of the office, it still has its limitations. No matter how great the camera view, we are still unable to listen to lungs or look at ear drums. Some things simply require a physical visit to properly treat. However, there are many issues that can be treated without a full physical exam, such as pink eye, rashes, thrush, etc. Northwest Pediatrics doctors proudly practice evidence-based medicine and strive to be judicious stewards of antibiotics. However, given the challenges the COVID-19 crisis has created, we will review every child and visit independently and make the best choices we can to provide great care during unusual circumstances.

What kind of problems can I have a Telemedicine visit for?

We are currently offering Telemedicine visits for sick visits, behavioral issues, or management of chronic problems (asthma, ADHD, etc.). We are not currently conducting well child care via Telemedicine, however, if we expand the types of visits we are offering, we will post information on our website.

When does Telemedicine start at NWP?

Services are available starting early April 8, 2020.

What are the hours for Telemedicine?

We plan to offer Telemedicine during our normal business hours. M-F, 8 am to 5 pm. Of note, our triage nurses are available during these times, too. They can help decide if a Telemedicine visit is warranted if you are unsure.

Is Northwest Pediatrics accepting new patients?

Yes, most of the doctors are accepting new patients at this time. We welcome all patients who plan to receive services now and in the future with Northwest Pediatrics. Check out our profiles here. Of note, we do require vaccinations for the safety of all children seen in our clinic.

Can my cousin in Idaho use your services since their doctors don’t have Telemedicine?

Unfortunately, children must be citizens of Oklahoma to receive our services. As mentioned above, we are only caring for Northwest Pediatric patients (not as an urgent-care type service for the public).

What if an in-person visit is recommended and I am scared to come into the office?

There are a variety of reasons your doctor may recommend an in-person visit, such as need for an ear check, a lung exam, or need for lab testing. Here are some of the variousthingswearedoingd uringtheCOVID-19pandemictokeepchildren, families, and staff healthy in our clinic:

• We are actively screening every single appointment over the phone and making sure that if a family has symptoms of coronavirus and a potential exposure, they are directed to either stay home or arrange for a visit isolated from the rest of our patients. Patients are also screened at the entrance of the building and given a facemask if indicated.

• Visitors are limited to 1 parent for 1 child only (this is a rule for Mercy and not just our own)

• Well visits are scheduled only in the morning to avoid contact with sick patients.

• The waiting room has very limited places to sit to honor social distancing recommendations. We are doing our best to bring patients back to rooms ASAP to limit times waiting in shared spaces.

• Staff and doctors are being screened for symptoms at the start of each day. Staff with patient interactions are also wearing masks and gloves (and sometimes goggles and gowns as indicated) as extra protection to limit exposure and transmission of the virus.

• Enhanced cleaning procedures to high traffic areas/objects every 20-30 minutes during clinic hours during and at the end of each day to reduce contamination of surfaces.

• Review of daily notifications from the Health Department about local outbreak. Protocols are revised and shared with staff as needed.

I don’t see my question listed above. What do I do?

Please call 405-755-2230. We will do our best to assist you.