For many people, a neurology appointment requires travel and time off work.
You'll be glad to hear you have another option: a virtual neurology visit.
Neurology telemedicine visits can bring you more timely and convenient care.
Through a UPMC patient portal, you can:
UPMC teleneurology will offer you a virtual visit if:
If you're eligible for a teleneurology visit, we'll send you appointment times within 1 to 2 business days of your request. Once you confirm a time, we'll send you a message via your patient portal on how to log in to your appointment.
All you need is internet access and a device that supports video calls, such as a:
During your visit, the neurologist may:
Your video visit can help your neurologist:
Before you complete your visit, your neurologist's office staff will book follow-up video or in-person appointments.
One example of a type of neurology appointment that can often be done through telemedicine is an evaluation for memory loss. If you have problems with mobility or other issues, but would like to discuss your symptoms with a neurologist, video visits can be a good way to explain what is happening to you. You may want a caregiver with you during your appointment to help describe the issues.
During your online visit, the neurologist will:
Virtual visits may not help people who have new symptoms or other problems besides memory loss, such as falls, tremors and vision changes.
In these cases, an office visit is best. But when memory loss is the only issue, teleneurology visits are easy and effective.
With a neurology telemedicine visit, you save time and effort. You may be able to avoid taking time off work and driving to an office appointment.
Video visits are especially helpful if you:
We offer virtual visits to both new and current UPMC neurology patients.
A teleneurology visit is ideal for people who:
For issues like movement problems and muscle weakness, in-person appointments may be best. Doctors often use touch and closely observe the muscles to diagnose these disorders.
Most insurance plans cover telemedicine visits. Still, it's a good idea to contact your insurer to confirm coverage.