Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center announced the launch of a free virtual urgent care service, Virtual Care Anywhere, for anyone in our community experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of the new coronavirus.

Virtual urgent care visits are being encouraged as an initial care option for anyone who would like to discuss symptoms characteristic of COVID-19 with a health care professional.

As ambulatory and acute care facilities across the country experience an increase in the number of patients with COVID-19 symptoms, virtual health care visits can help providers meet demand while reducing potential transmission of the coronavirus.

The service is a safe and convenient way for people to speak with a medical professional for advice without needing to visit a physical care location.

To use the service, visit http://www.dignityhealth.org/virtualcareanywhere, download the Virtual Care Anywhere app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or call 855356-8053 and use the coupon code COVID19.

The service has a fee of $35 per visit, and the fee will be waived for any patient who thinks they may be experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

After requesting an appointment, a virtual care provider will contact the patient once they are available, typically within 15-30 minutes, although high demand may result in longer wait times.

The service is on-demand and does not accept appointments. “Virtual urgent care visits are one way we will help patients with COVID-19 symptoms assess their options for treatment or testing,” said hospital president, Chuck Kassis. “Virtual visits allow for timely care delivery without putting other patients or our clinicians at risk for contracting the virus. And while it’s not intended to replace in-person care visits, it will help reduce patient volumes at care sites so we can serve those who need care the most.”