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@elizm

@merpreb @gingerw @colleenyoung
I've read that PCPs (and probably specialists, as well) are in trouble financially due to the shelter-in-place practice, despite some televisits and email exchanges. This brings to mind the question, do insurance companies and Medicare allow them to bill for such work? Does anyone know?

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Replies to "@merpreb @gingerw @colleenyoung I've read that PCPs (and probably specialists, as well) are in trouble financially..."

@elizm- excellent question. I think that most pcp's work for a hospital system now. They are businesses so they probably are taking a financial hit love like a lot of businesses. I'm sure that whatever they do for work that they will be compensated. My worry are all of the medical personnel who have lost their lives and those who are in harm's way.

@elizm I think it is wise to check with your insurance prior to accepting a televisit with any dr, if possible. My husband had a televisit with his nephrologist, and was charged as if going to a dr out-of-network. I asked him to challenge it. My next appts are in late April to late May with various drs. PCPs and specialists are having to furlough staff, but the overhead of rent and utilities continues.
Ginger

@elizm I believe that the one silver lining of this pandemic is that is has forced healthcare systems around the world to fast-track their developments for virtual healthcare. That said, all the kinks are not worked out. I agree with @roch and @gingerw that one should always check with their insurance company and provider about compensation for the service.