Common Questions About Telehealth at Fox Chase Cancer Center

What is telehealth?

Telehealth (also often called telemedicine) offers the ability for healthcare to be provided to patients in real-time with the use of electronic technology. Patients can have an appointment—whether it is an initial consultation or a follow-up visit—when it isn’t possible for them to be there in person.

Am I able to use telehealth for all of my appointments?

Your Fox Chase provider will determine the best type of appointment for you based on what type of visit you have and what may be required during that visit. If you are scheduled for an appointment at Fox Chase and your provider feels that a telehealth visit (via video or phone consultation) is appropriate, you will be contacted by a staff member and offered this option.

I am scheduled for a telehealth visit, but I just received an automatic call to attend the visit in-person. What should I do?

If you were told by your provider or a member of your team to stay home for a telehealth visit, please ignore any automated calls you may receive telling you otherwise. If you have any questions, please contact your care team to confirm.

What kinds of telehealth services does Fox Chase offer?

At this time, some patients are able to have the following appointments via video or phone consultation:

• A second opinion or initial appointment
• A follow-up visit with their Fox Chase provider

If I choose a video consultation, do I need a special app?

Fox Chase video consultations are conducted through Zoom, which is a secure web application.

In order to access Zoom, you will need a smartphone or computer that has a working camera and microphone. If you do not have either type of device, an appointment via phone call might be a possibility.

Is the video web application secure?

Yes. All data is encrypted and none of your information is stored. The web application also adheres to HIPAA, PIPEDA, and GDPR data privacy requirements.

How will I know if I should see my provider via telehealth?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, new and existing patients will be contacted by a member of their care team before their first or next appointment if they are eligible for a telehealth visit.