Telehealth Services at Novi Dermatology

Telehealth is the use of audio, video, or electronic communication to deliver healthcare remotely. 

For both new and established patients, we offer video telehealth visits.  This occurs in real-time with both the physician and the patient and allows both a visual link and the ability for a discussion between you and the physician on your skin condition.

For established patients, non-video brief telehealth services may also be delivered via the patient portal or via phone communication if appropriate.

During the COVID-19 outbreak, the use of Telehealth is being highly encouraged, to decrease the number of patients in doctor’s offices and to decrease social interaction with those who may be susceptible to severe illness with COVID-19 infection.

Convenience is another common reason people love Telehealth.  You save both time and gas money when you don’t have to drive to the doctor’s office.

No, Telehealth cannot replace all in-person visits, and sometimes the recommendation after your Telehealth visit may be to come to see us in the office.  If you have a fever, feel ill, are in severe pain, or have a condition that requires urgent attention, then Telehealth is not appropriate and you should seek urgent medical care.  As well, dermatology procedures (such as skin biopsies) have to be done in the office, but a Telehealth visit may be helpful to let you know whether a procedure is necessary.

We are currently evaluating the following skin conditions through Telehealth Visits:

• Acne
• Blisters
• Changing Mole
• Cyst
• Discoloration of skin
• Eczema
• Hair Loss
• Rash
• Rosacea
• Psoriasis
• Skin Irritation
• Skin Lesion
• Wound Check

For video visits, you will need a device that can accept a text message or email, can take photos and stream video, has an internet browser, and is connected to the internet.  For most people, their smartphone is adequate.

The cost of Telehealth depends on medical necessity and your insurance company.  We will bill your insurance company for medical visits, but you are responsible for payment in advance of your Telehealth visit for any copays, deductibles, coinsurance or cost-sharing as determined by your health insurance policy.  This is the same process that is used for in-office visits.  Cosmetic consultations are not billed to insurance companies, and the entire fee is collected in advance of your Telehealth appointment.

After your Telehealth Visit, we will submit a bill to your insurance company.  If you have a balance remaining based on your insurance company benefits, then you will receive a bill from us and an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance company.

2.  Register as a patient.  During your registration call with the office, your insurance information will be needed and your Patient Portal will be activated.

3. Follow the steps on the Telehealth Instructions link here: Welcome-New-Patient-Telehealth.pdf

*** If the Telehealth visit is for a minor, the parent/guardian must be present during the Telehealth visit. ***