NORWICH – In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Chenango’s only hospital has launched virtual visits for its primary and specialty care services.

“Telemedicine has always been part of our long-term vision, but it’s become imperative for us to have this capacity now, so that we can best serve our patients during this global health crisis,” said Chris Kisacky, VP of Service Delivery and Development at UHS Chenango Memorial.

According to Kisacky, all four of the hospital’s primary care locations – in Norwich, Oxford, Sherburne and Sidney – are offering Virtual Visits, as well as UHS Orthopedics Norwich, UHS Cardiology Norwich and the newly opened Women’s Health Center at the Eaton Center.

“Clearly COVID-19 is front of mind for everyone right now, but our patients have other medical concerns as well,” she said. “It’s important for people to know that we are still here to care for both their routine and urgent healthcare needs during this time.”

Dr. Kurt Harding, Medical Director of Primary Care at UHS Chenango Memorial, explained how the process works.

“By using your smartphone, tablet or computer with a camera, you are able to see and talk to us virtually. This will allow us to address a wide range of your health care needs from the safety and comfort of your own home,” he said. “When you call, our staff is trained to walk you through the process in just a few minutes for your first Virtual Visit. We look forward to seeing you!”

According to Harding, some patients have expressed fear about leaving their house even when they urgently need care.

“Even though COVID is demanding everyone’s attention, attending to your own health needs is still very important. With Virtual Visits, we have the ability to meet those needs as safely as we can during this time,” he said.

Kisacky acknowledged that not all patients have the right technology or internet access for a Virtual Visits. In those instances, patients can still opt to be seen in person, or staff will work with them for another solution.

“We are taking extra precautions at each of our locations, including the screening of all staff and patients,” she said.

Same day appointments are also available at each of the primary and specialty care locations.

“We want our community to know that we at UHS Chenango Memorial are here to help everyone through this unique time,” said Kisacky.

For more information or to make an appointment call: UHS Primary Care Norwich at 337-4040; UHS Orthopedics Norwich at 337-4950; UHS Cardiology Norwich at 337-4215; UHS Women’s Health Norwich at 337-4218 or use the Find a Location feature at www.nyuhs.org/locations.

For the latest COVID-19 resources, visit www.nyuhs.org

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital is a member of United Health Services, a locally owned not-for-profit 916-bed hospital and health care system serving the Greater Binghamton region from more than 40 locations around New York’s Southern Tier.