U.Va. Health recently introduced its Virtual Primary Care On Demand service, allowing patients aged 18 and older to connect with healthcare providers through video calls anywhere in Virginia. This service is available weekdays from early morning to the evening and offers limited hours on weekends.
During a recent Zoom press briefing, John Bennett, chief service officer at U.Va. Health, explained that this initiative addresses a significant nationwide shortage of primary care access. Many patients currently face long waits to see a doctor, pushing them to overcrowded emergency rooms. Bennett emphasized, “This service meets patients where they are.”
The shortage of primary care providers has been troubling. Recent reports indicate that a lack of available physicians leads patients to seek emergency care for issues that could be managed through a primary care visit. In its first week, U.Va. Health’s new service quickly gained popularity, booking 15-30 appointments daily, often within one or two hours of scheduling.
The team includes full-time nurse practitioners and part-time doctors, ready to assist with various needs. Patients can receive preventative care, prescription refills, mental health support, and management for chronic conditions—all via video calls. This virtual approach is not only convenient; it’s also cost-effective, providing an alternative to expensive emergency visits. Insurance holders will pay regular co-pays, while those without insurance can still access the service and apply for financial aid if eligible.
As the service expands, U.Va. Health aims to incorporate pediatricians and behavioral health specialists to meet diverse patient needs. The video call feature offers a unique advantage, enabling family members to be involved in care discussions.
Bennett mentioned that the platform is meant to serve both temporary needs and long-term care. Patients requiring in-person follow-ups will be referred to local facilities. For additional care such as lab tests or imaging, virtual providers will connect them with U.Va. Health labs or partners like LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics.
Interestingly, the service is not limited to Virginia residents. Patients temporarily out of the state can still access healthcare, although obtaining prescriptions may be more complex.
This new initiative aligns with U.Va. Health’s 10-year strategic plan focused on improving access to care. Compton, chief operating officer, noted the immediate demand for the service, highlighting that patients are coming from all corners of the state—a clear indication of the unmet needs for accessible healthcare.
Looking ahead, U.Va. Health will use data gathered from this service to identify and address gaps in accessibility. As they refine their offerings, they hope to serve the community more effectively.
Starting July 1, the Virtual Primary Care On Demand service will also cater to children aged five and older, further extending its reach. Patients can schedule appointments through MyChart or by calling U.Va. Health directly, making this service accessible to all, regardless of their association with the university.
For a deeper understanding of the healthcare access crisis in the U.S., you can refer to the Physicians Foundation report. This context reinforces the importance of innovative solutions like U.Va. Health’s new service in bridging the care gap.
