AUSTIN, Texas — Although we are seeing more COVID-19 hospitalizations in Central Texas, the majority of people with the virus are recovering at home.
Those people who are sick at home, or have kids who are sick with COVID-19, may want to talk to a doctor about how they can treat and keep track of their symptoms. That’s why some health providers, like Baylor Scott & White, have virtual options to help people fighting off COVID-19 at-home.
Through Baylor Scott & White’s website and app, people can message doctors for medical advice or they can visit with a doctor over video. These options help hospital resources be used for those who need it, and also helps the people recovering at home have more guidance.
“85 to 90% of people, all people [vaccinated and unvaccinated], are able to stay at home with COVID,” said Dr. Ashis Barad, the Medical director of virtual specialty care services at Baylor Scott & White Health. “So you don't have to rush to the emergency room if you're worried that you have COVID and you have mild symptoms.”
You can also enroll in a digital program that uses the app to help keep track of your symptoms and recovery for 14 days after diagnosis.
“So, you are not alone at home and we don't want you just being home and saying, 'OK, I don't know what to do next,' so we want to be with you,” said. Dr. Barad.
Dr. Barad also said he encourages people to get vaccinated and boosted if they are eligible.
You do not need to be a Baylor Scott & White patient to utilize these resources and they do take all major insurance.
You can sign up for virtual care on their website or download the app on the Apple Store or Google Play. You can also get the app by texting "BETTER" to 88408.
To find COVID-19 testing near you, you can call 2-1-1 or 877-541-7905, or visit 211Texas.org.
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