Western N.C. residents: As online services are restored, Novant Health is offering free virtual care services

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – In response to the significant devastation across Western North Carolina, Novant Health is providing free, on-demand virtual care services to adults and children in the region. Patients may access care immediately, with no appointment necessary, by visiting NovantHealth.org/Now.

"Western North Carolina is facing immense challenges in the wake of this disaster, and our teams are working together to support these communities – both in-person and across the Carolinas," said Carl S. Armato, president and CEO, Novant Health. "We’re offering free virtual care as online services are restored in the region to give those impacted a sense of hope and connection to the care they may need during this time of crisis."

Virtual care visits offer treatment 24/7 for conditions such as fever, COVID, cold and flu, ear infections, shortness of breath, rash and common skin conditions, back pain and urinary tract infections. Virtual care should not be used for emergency care. Those experiencing a medical emergency should call 911.

Patients will be asked to log in to their Novant Health MyChart account or create one to access virtual care services. They will need a camera- and microphone-enabled phone, computer or tablet.

In addition to free, on-demand virtual care services, also known as telehealth, Novant Health is actively working to support the needs of Western North Carolina by:

• Coordinating with state emergency management officials to assist with both immediate needs and long-term recovery, including mobilizing resources to ensure that emergency care is accessible for those who need it most.
• Establishing a shelter in partnership with the local Red Cross at 1815 Hendersonville Road in Asheville.
• Accepting patients from Western North Carolina at Novant Health hospitals.
• Deploying team members from across the Carolinas to Western North Carolina. This effort includes sending a team from Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center and an ambulance, as well as utilizing the Novant Health Critical Care Transport team to support patient transfers as needed.
• Coordinating with local organizations and shelters to provide food and essential supplies to residents of affected communities.

Patients who have evacuated from Western North Carolina may find in-person care at Novant Health by visiting NovantHealth.org/doctor or calling 855-875-8310.