UHS Expands Telemedicine to Enhance Healthcare Access
New York, Friday, 13 December 2024.
United Health Services broadens virtual healthcare, improving access across New York’s Southern Tier, reflecting a trend towards telemedicine for better healthcare delivery.
Enhanced Digital Healthcare Infrastructure
United Health Services (UHS) has significantly expanded its virtual healthcare capabilities, offering patients across New York’s Southern Tier comprehensive access to medical services through digital platforms [1]. The system now enables patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely through both video consultations and, when necessary, voice-only appointments for those with limited internet access [1]. This expansion is part of UHS’s broader network of services, which includes multiple hospitals and specialty medical facilities throughout the region [3].
Quality Assurance and Accreditation
In a significant achievement for their virtual healthcare initiative, UHS’s Virtual Walk-In service has received URAC telehealth accreditation [2]. This accreditation represents a commitment to industry best practices in areas including quality of care, system reliability, and consumer protection [2]. The virtual service operates during standard business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing patients with professional medical consultations, diagnoses, and prescriptions when necessary [2].
Integration with Traditional Healthcare Services
The telemedicine expansion integrates seamlessly with UHS’s existing healthcare infrastructure through MyChart, providing free and secure access to healthcare teams across various specialties including primary care, pediatrics, and behavioral health [3]. For existing patients, the system maintains continuity of care by giving virtual healthcare providers access to complete medical records [2], ensuring consistent treatment approaches regardless of the consultation method.
Supporting Regional Healthcare Initiatives
This virtual healthcare expansion comes at a crucial time for the region’s healthcare development. In parallel with UHS’s initiatives, other regional healthcare developments are addressing various aspects of medical service delivery. For instance, Binghamton University is launching a pharmacy technician training program starting in 2024 [4], demonstrating the region’s comprehensive approach to improving healthcare accessibility and service quality.