I know I’m not alone when I say that this time of year is always something mamas silently dread, especially mamas with little ones. It seems like everyone is coughing or sneezing no matter where you go, and as hard as you try to prevent catching something, it always finds a way to surprise you when you least expect it. And with Brady going back to school tomorrow, I know I’ll be a little more on edge hoping he doesn’t pick up something from his schoolmates.  

Thanks to the introduction of Virtual Visits from SSM Health, you can see a provider and receive a treatment plan all from the comfort of your own home (using your smartphone, tablet or computer) – all in less than 60 minutes! No appointment needed and no waiting rooms!

I’m telling you, this has been a total game changer for us. There is nothing I stress out about more than having to go into a doctor’s office between November and March. With three kids, it’s not as simple as just running to the doctor’s office with my one sick child – my other two babies come too. So if they aren’t sick, you better believe I’m worried about what they might be catching the whole time we’re there. SSM Health’s Virtual Visits completely eliminate this anxiety for you – and you can get immediate answers.  

Another benefit? The cost. Utilizing this service will only cost you $25 flat. You can pay with cash, card or health savings card. And, no insurance verification is required. That’s less than a co-pay at some urgent cares around here! *If for some reason you cannot be treated online and need to see a provider in person, you won’t be charged for the virtual visit. 

So how does it work? Let me walk you through it. 

After logging into the SSM Health’s Virtual Visit platform, you’re provided with an online form containing a series of questions you’d normally be asked at a clinic, like “what symptoms are you experiencing” or “how long has this been going on.” The usual. When you submit your answers, they’re delivered to a trusted SSM Health provider closest to your physical location (so that you may go in to see them if needed). Within 15 minutes, you’ll receive a video chat or phone call from an SSM Health provider to discuss treatment. 

One hour later, you’ll have received a custom treatment plan and peace of mind. If your plan includes prescriptions, they’ll be sent to your preferred pharmacy for pick-up! If your questionnaire is sent after normal business hours, you’ll receive a response within an hour of when operations begin the next day. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday – 9 am to 7:30 pm and Saturday through Sunday – 10 am to 4:30 pm.

Where is SSM Health located? SSM Health is one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States! They have a multi-geographical footprint that includes Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois and Wisconsin. You can find all of their locations here. 

What conditions can be treated through Virtual Visits? This tool is best used for acute issues, like ear infections, sinus infections, colds and coughs, urinary tract infections, and some select children’s services like rashes, pink eye and lice. Ah, kids are so much fun, aren’t they?