Wisconsin DHS launches telehealth service for COVID-19
MILWAUKEE - The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announced a free telehealth service to streamline access to COVID-19 treatment on Wednesday, Nov. 2.
According to DHS, COVID-19 antiviral treatments must be taken within five days of symptoms starting, even if symptoms are mild, making it essential to access a clinician for a prescription quickly. Anyone 18 and older who tests positive for COVID-19 can have a telehealth consultation with a healthcare clinician within 5-30 minutes.
DHS said if eligible, a clinician will prescribe an oral antiviral pill that reduces the risk of severe symptoms, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. The prescription can be filled at over 600 pharmacies in the state. Insurance is not required. Those without pharmacy access can have their medicine shipped overnight.
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"Providing telehealth access supports our commitment to health equity," said secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. "Telehealth is a quick, easy, and free way for individuals who may not be able to travel to a clinic or who may not have insurance or health care to learn if antiviral pills to treat COVID-19 are an appropriate treatment for them. We believe this will be especially important in extending our ability to serve rural, elderly, and other underserved populations."
The COVID-19 Treatment Telehealth service is available statewide, accessible through the internet and telephone, and consultations are available in multiple languages. Consultations are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. At-home COVID-19 tests or tests performed by a healthcare provider or at a community testing site are acceptable. The service is not for medical emergencies or treatments other than COVID-19.