Planned Parenthood has introduced a new online feature that provides clients with a safe and reliable way to receive virtual healthcare. Telehealth, also known as Telemedicine, is an online platform that allows or medical personnel to connect with patients virtually, rather than in-office.
"Patients can use today's technology as a secure platform to interact with healthcare providers without physically going to the site and still have the face-to-face component of an in-person appointment" said Dr. Adarsh Krishen, the Chief Medical Officer of Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio (PPGOH).
Why Telehealth?
Although Planned Parenthood debuted their Telehealth services during the COVID-19 Pandemic, the need for access to quality healthcare within this online service has continued to grow.
The community of college students and staff on campus may uniquely benefit from this new service. The online aspect of Telehealth works to eliminate any anxieties or fear that students may have while seeking professional healthcare, and there is no need to worry about transportation or scheduling conflicts, considering same-day appointments are available for your convenience.
"A primary goal of Planned Parenthood's Telehealth service is to provide more access to patients who need our resources, and to ensure that it is available for patients in a timely manner," said Dr. Krishen.
Planned Parenthood services that are offered through Telehealth include HIV,STD, and UTI testing and treatment, birth control, emergency contraception, PEP/PrEP, and gender affirming hormone therapy. After the appointment, the healthcare professional will walk you through the next steps of your treatment plan, discuss options for medications, and assist in scheduling any follow up appointments, if necessary.
How To Access Telehealth Services
Telehealth is a service that is utilized nationwide, but in order for patients to be served by PPGOH, they must be within the borders of the state of Ohio at the time of the appointment in order to be helped.
The Telehealth service is available through video, phone, chat, or text. It is completely private and confidential; students just need to find a private and safe space with internet access to have the appointment. Appointments can be scheduled online via the Planned Parenthood website.
