Chesterfield Council hears presentation on no-cost telehealth service for residents

Sarah Griggs, a representative of MD Health Pathways, told the Chesterfield County Council on Nov. 6 that the telehealth service is available at no cost to county residents regardless of insurance and is intended to bridge gaps when primary-care offices are unavailable.

"It is at no cost to Chesterfield County residents," Griggs said, noting the program served 158 people from Oct. 1 to Oct. 31. She described the service as staffed by doctors based in Texas who can communicate with patients by text, phone or video and, when appropriate, call in prescriptions to local pharmacies.

Council members asked how the telehealth provider hands off care to local primary-care doctors. A council member said it would be important to ensure follow-up so that a primary-care provider receives records or notification.

Griggs said patient information can be sent to a primary-care physician if the patient gives permission and described efforts to coordinate with local providers including CareSouth and Sand Hills Medical. She said the service can also refer residents to local doctors when needed and that local pharmacies such as Wanamaker Drug have been used to fill prescriptions.

The presentation emphasized access: Griggs said residents who cannot text can have a family member activate the service on their behalf and that the provider will call back to a landline. The program’s operating window was described as 9–11 a.m. local time (providers are one hour behind), and Griggs said the service aims to reduce unnecessary emergency-room visits when primary-care offices are closed.

The council did not take formal action on the presentation, but members thanked staff and the presenter and encouraged wider local outreach so residents are aware of the service.