New “Try Telemedicine First” Website Launched to Increase Access to Virtual Care Resources During COVID-19 Pandemic

The goal is to reduce demand on hospitals across New York and lessen the burden on frontline medical professionals

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Schenectady, NY – April 14, 2020 – Accessing telemedicine has just become easier for people in New York thanks to a new website launched today by MVP Health Care and Media Logic. The website, trytelemedicinefirst.com, serves as a directory of available telemedicine services, and can be searched by health insurance company name or by zip code – the latter of which will provide information on hospitals and providers that offer telemedicine services.

During these unprecedented times, telemedicine can be used as a first step for people who believe they may be experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. It can also be used for non-COVID-19 related health issues to help people avoid a trip to an Emergency Room or doctor’s office, thereby stopping the spread of the virus, and helping to flatten the curve. This initiative is making it easier for people to find the correct telemedicine service based on their insurance coverage and location and to access the care they need virtually.

“Everyone must do their part during the COVID-19 pandemic to slow the spread of the virus,” said MVP Health Care’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Del Vecchio. “This website is a way for us to support the communities we serve by investing in the greater mission of keeping all New Yorkers healthy, regardless of whether they are an MVP member or not. Together with Media Logic, we’re so proud to offer this technology resource to help keep our State healthy and safe.”

Through telemedicine services, New Yorkers can have real-time conversations with health care professionals by using their phone, smartphone, tablet or computer. In these conversations, patients can ask questions, be diagnosed, and prescribed treatment just as they would at an in-person doctor’s appointment.

“This initiative was inspired by the incredible bravery and fortitude of all of the medical professionals on the frontline of the battle with COVID-19,” said Media Logic’s Chief Executive Officer, David Schultz. “We wanted to find a way to help and we knew that the use of telemedicine could reduce the demand and stress on the hospitals, doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers.”

Telemedicine may be covered by a New Yorker’s health insurance plan with low or no out-of-pocket costs for the patient.

To help spread the word about the importance of ‘trying telemedicine first,” MVP Health Care has also launched a PSA, which has been created to remind people that if they are experiencing symptoms of _COVID-19 or think they may have been exposed, to stay home, stay safe, and try telemedicine first. The PSA can be viewed here.

To find telemedicine options available, visit trytelemedicinefirst.com.

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About MVP Health Care
MVP Health Care is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit health insurer caring for more than 700,000 members in New York and Vermont. Committed to the complete well-being of our members and the communities we serve, MVP makes health insurance more convenient, more supportive, and more personal. For more information, visit www.mvphealthcare.com, or on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About Media Logic
Media Logic is the strategic marketing partner of choice for leading global, national and regional organizations in the health care, financial services and technology industries. We deliver a full range of solutions for branding, demand generation and growing/retaining customers. For more information, visit www.medialogic.com or on Twitter and LinkedIn.