Telehealth and nurselines

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, consider a telehealth visit or nurseline advice. Ask your primary care provider if they offer telehealth visits, or call one of Colorado’s nurselines.

Why should you use telehealth? 

• Telehealth can reduce your risk of getting sick or spreading the virus by limiting your exposure to others.
• Telehealth can help you get medical advice faster.

What is the difference between telehealth and nurselines? 

• Telehealth is connecting with a doctor over the phone or through a video call. Using telehealth, a doctor can assess you, give you a treatment plan that fits your needs, or prescribe medication. 
• A nurseline can give you more information about what to do next. Talking to a nurse on the phone can help you decide when to contact your doctor or visit a health care facility, understand your medications, or give you more information about preventative care. 

Does it cost extra to use telehealth? 

• In Colorado, telehealth is covered by all insurance plans. To learn more, contact your insurance company directly. 
• Calling a nurseline is typically free. Some nurselines may have rules about who they serve. 
• Under direction of Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies, co-pays will be waived for any COVID-19-related in-network telehealth services for those with private health insurance. For unrelated telehealth visits, you may still be required to pay a copay.
• Telehealth visits cost the same as an in-person visit for Medicaid and Medicare patients. 
• If you don’t have health insurance or a primary care provider, there are several online telehealth companies that will see you for a fee. These visits typically range from $20 to $75 per visit. 

How do you use telehealth?

• Visit a telehealth website and sign-up/sign-in to get an appointment.
• Download the software or apps that are used for the visit. 
• If you have a thermometer, heart rate monitor, blood pressure cuff, blood sugar monitor, or other medical tool, have it with you at the time of your telehealth visit.
• Sit in a well-lit room so that the provider can see you well.
• If possible, join the visit a few minutes early to make sure your microphone and camera on your device are working properly.  

Can anyone call a nurseline?

Most nurselines will serve anyone who calls. Some nurselines may have rules about who they serve.

Do you need health insurance for the nurselines?

No. Many nurselines are free.

Telehealth and nurselines directory

This is not an exhaustive list of telehealth options. Before using one of these services, ask your primary care provider if they offer telehealth visits or call your insurance company for more information. If you don’t have health insurance or a primary care provider, several online telehealth companies will see you for a fee.