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Resources for Accessing Arthritis Care and Information 

Take advantage of these options to get answers and help as you manage arthritis.

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, government and public health officials are recommending that Americans stay home.  During this crisis, many doctors are only handling medical emergencies and delaying routine appointments for a month or more. 

What should you do if you have a question about your medication, an infusion appointment, an elective surgery or another aspect of your arthritis care? Who can you turn to? 

We have compiled a list of resources to help you get answers to your questions and information about caring for your arthritis. 

The Arthritis Foundation Helpline – Our staff of licensed, clinical social workers can assist with resources to help you: 

  • Lower the cost of your medications. 

  • Interpret your insurance coverage. 

  • Better understand your disease. 

  • Connect you with other people like you. 

  • Improve communication with your health care providers. 

You can learn more and access the Helpline online or by calling 1-844-571-HELP (4357). 

Provider Portals – While your doctor and staff may only see emergency cases  right now, that does not mean they aren’t a resource. Many have options for you to reach them remotely. 

The most common is a patient portal, a secure online system where you can send and receive messages from your doctor and review basic medical information.  It only takes a few minutes to sign up.  Portals allow you to send a message, request refills, review lab tests and other features. Check your doctor’s website to get information on how to access the portal and set up an account. 

Some providers offer telehealth services.  This service will allow you to video chat with your doctor or nurse. There are a few things you’ll need to know to use this service: what internet browser is compatible and what internet speed is required. 

Insurer Programs/Services – Many insurance companies have resources designed to help you manage your care from the comfort of your home. Those resources could include: 

  • Info Line: Most insurers provide a phone line where you can talk to a health care professional – usually a nurse or nurse practitioner – about non-emergency symptoms and problems. They can provide guidance on steps to take to manage those issues. 

  • Tele Medicine: Some insurers have embraced the digital age and offer virtual visits with a health care professional. From the comfort of your home you can connect screen-to-screen with a doctor or other health care professional via your computer, tablet or phone. 

  • Prescription Delivery: Don’t forget, just about every insurer has an order-by-mail option for prescription. Now might be a good time to look at what your insurer offers and plan for ordering your next refill. 

  • Care Management and In-Home Care: Your provider just might have an option for care management or in-home care, where someone comes to your home to provide treatments, like infusions, that are normally done at a health care facility. You will need to check with your provider to see if this service exists and if you qualify. 

  • Mobile App: Insurance apps usually provide basic information about your coverage and benefits but may also allow you to place orders for prescriptions and access other resources such as those mentioned above. 

Services vary by company so check your benefits or your provider’s website to find out what they offer. 

 

 

 

 

  

 

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