What are telehealth considerations for American Indian and Alaska Natives?
Telehealth can be used to treat a wide range of health conditions.
What are the benefits of using telehealth?
Telehealth provides many benefits for American Indian and Alaska Natives, including:
- Access and options. Telehealth lets you see various providers, including specialists, even if they are far away.
- Convenience. You can use telehealth from your home or a clinic near where you live.
- Privacy. You can see your provider in a space where you feel comfortable.
What health care services can I receive using telehealth?
Telehealth can be helpful for different health care needs, such as:
- Primary care services
- Follow-up care
- Behavioral health care
- Urgent care for conditions like back pain, infections, rashes, or colds
- Counseling on healthy foods and exercise
What are the different types of telehealth?
There are many ways that telehealth technology can be used to support health care:
Video appointments. You can talk to and see a health care provider, just like a regular visit.
Phone calls. You may be able to speak with your provider by using the phone.
Secure emails or texting. You can send and get secure emails or text messages. You can also share images or test results with your provider.
Remote patient monitoring. You can use technology to keep track of your health information, like blood sugar, blood pressure, or heart rate. You can then share this information with your provider.
What do I need to use telehealth?
For most telehealth visits you will need:
Internet or cellphone connection
A device like a computer, smartphone, or tablet that has a microphone, speaker, and camera
Did you know?
Lifeline is a government program that can help you pay for a computer or phone and internet or cellular access.
How do I prepare for my telehealth visit?
Before a telehealth appointment, it is helpful to:
- Make sure your computer, phone, or other device is charged up and turned on.
- Let your provider know if you need a translator or other assistance.
- Find a private and quiet place to sit.
- Write down any questions before your visit starts.
- Test your camera and sound.
How do I pay for telehealth?
Talk to your provider or insurance company to find out if telehealth care is covered, what you may need to pay, and learn about your options. For example, many Indian Health Service facilities offer some telehealth services.
More information:
How do I use telehealth for behavioral health care? — Health Resources and Services Administration
How can I use telehealth to manage chronic conditions? — Health Resources and Services Administration
How do I pay for telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration
What are different types of telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration
What can be treated through telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration
What do I need to use telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration
What should I know before my telehealth visit? — Health Resources and Services Administration
Why use telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration