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Southwell offers virtual visits to enhance patient access

Southwell is now offering Southwell Connect, a virtual visit program for some physician and advanced practice provider appointments.

“Save time and see your Southwell provider from the comfort of your own home,” said Cameron Nixon, M.D., Chief Transformation Officer for Southwell.  “All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a Wi-Fi connection.  Virtual visits are private, secure, and easy-to-use.”

In addition to Tift Regional Medical Center (TRMC) in Tifton and Southwell Medical in Adel, Southwell’s network of care includes clinics and outpatient centers in Tifton, Adel, Ashburn, Moultrie, Nashville, Ocilla, Sylvester and Valdosta.

“Consumers expect convenience with just about everything they do these days – from streaming movies to shopping online,” said Dr. Nixon.  “But many people don’t realize that seeing a doctor may be just as easy.”

Virtual visits, or telehealth, are helping to make access to healthcare more expedient. Instead of having to go to a provider’s office and sit in a waiting room, patients can have basic check-ups conducted over their mobile device or computer.  This can also help patients save time and expense by not having to leave school or work for an appointment.

“This is especially important in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic, as virtual visits help minimize exposure to the virus,” said Dr. Nixon. “Virtual visits can also improve quality and help prevent costly downstream events, such as ER visits and hospital admissions.”

Virtual office visits are simply provider-patient interactions that occur via e-mail, text, or through a web-based portal. They offer patients an alternative way to communicate with their providers regarding health issues that do not require face-to-face contact, such as simple urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections, or routine follow-up of chronic diseases.

“Talk to your Southwell provider to see if a virtual visit is available and appropriate for your next visit,” said Dr. Nixon.  “Most of our practices are also accepting new patients.”

In addition to provider clinics, services such as the TRMC Diabetes Learning Center and Hospice of Tift Area are also offering virtual visits.

Visit www.mysouthwell.com/connect to view a list of participating Southwell Connect providers and services.