Frequently Asked Questions
What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine is the delivery of healthcare services and health care related information using equipment that can allow for communication between patients and healthcare providers to exchange information to provide better access to healthcare services. This work is done using technology like internet, satellite, iPhones, or smartphones. The use of telemedicine services can take place in many situations, including hospitals, clinics, homes and nursing facilities, just to name a few.
Why Should I use Telemedicine?
It is not always easy or convenient for patients to get help for their health care needs. The purpose of telemedicine is to improve the opportunity to get healthcare closer to home, in a convenient location, and more timely way. Telemedicine is another option for receiving care from a provider. The benefit of telemedicine is less waiting and travel time and time away from work or other priorities. Telemedicine is not appropriate for all patients or situations. If your need is emergent please use a phone to call 911.
How common is telemedicine?
Around the world, millions of patients use telemedicine to monitor their vital signs, remain healthy and out of hospitals and emergency rooms. Patients and providers can download health and wellness applications for use on their cell phones to assist in telemedicine.
Is telemedicine safe?
Telemedicine is a safe and effective way to extend the delivery of health care. It may not be appropriate for ALL clinical situations and a medical professional can help you determine if telemedicine is appropriate. Guidelines exist for telemedicine to ensure safety and quality. Clinicians are held to the same standards of care through a telemedicine visit as an in-person visit. Similarly, the same standards for privacy and confidentiality for an in-person visit apply to telemedicine visits. If you have an emergent condition please use a phone to call 911.
Do you bill insurance?
No. Advanced Practice Nurse Source, LLC is currently a flat fee only service. Most employers will allow you to use your FSA or HSA (please check with your individual employer) to cover the cost of services, but a bill will not be submitted to your insurance. If you have medicare or medicaid I do NOT participate in those services under my business as Advanced Practice Nurse Source, LLC.
What is a nurse practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners are clinicians that blend clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an added emphasis on disease prevention and health management. Nurse Practitioners bring a comprehensive perspective to health care. All NPs must complete a master's or doctoral degree program and have advanced clinical training beyond their initial professional registered nurse preparation. Didactic and clinical courses prepare nurses with specialized knowledge and clinical competency to practice in primary care, acute care, and long-term health care settings.
What kind of medications or treatments do you prescribe?
Not all issues need a medication or treatment. I prescribe medications as needed based on the clinical picture, what will alleviate your discomfort and/or will improve your illness or injury. Because of the laws regarding in person consultation to prescribe narcotic medications, I am not able to prescribe those at this time. Those medications include, but are not limited to oxycodone, oxycontin, dilaudid, morphine, hydrocodone, and codeine. If you believe your illness or injuries requires such to relieve your pain, please see your primary care provider or proceed to the nearest urgent care or emergency department.
Why do you only see patients who live or are currently in Washington or Arizona?
Providers must be licensed in the states in which they practice. I am currently licensed in those states. I may expand this in the future if there is interest from outside of these areas.