Peak flu season puts pressure on Urgent Care and Emergency Departments

MU Health Care is urging patients with mild flu and respiratory virus symptoms to consider Quick Care locations and On-Demand Telehealth as a spike in flu cases has flooded Urgent Cares and Emergency Departments.

On-Demand Telehealth is a faster and more convenient option where you can see an MU Health Care provider anytime from your smartphone, tablet or computer. Our specialists are available from 8 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. It’s free to enroll, easy to use, private and secure.

Our On-Demand Telehealth services are in-network with many insurance providers and each visit is treated like a standard appointment with applicable copays. For patients not covered by insurance, self-pay visits are $64. To sign up for an On-Demand Telehealth visit, go to muhealthvideovisits.org/landing.htm.

“On-Demand Telehealth is a great option for patients with mild flu or respiratory virus symptoms,” said Jonathan Heidt, MD, emergency medicine physician. “We can address symptom management at home, determine Tamiflu eligibility and assist with work note requests. Patients who need testing, those with more serious symptoms and at-risk patients such as the very young or elderly should seek in-person care.”

For patients with mild flu symptoms who need in-person testing, primary care clinics can accommodate same-day sick appointments, but these slots fill up quickly. Mizzou Quick Care is a convenient option where you can schedule an appointment online for Columbia locations or walk-in at our Jefferson City location.

If you are not sure which type of care you require for your symptoms, MU Health Care offers an online symptom checker to help you decide if On-Demand Telehealth, Quick Care, Urgent Care or an Emergency Department is the appropriate option for you.

Contact: Rochita Ghosh, rochitaghosh@health.missouri.edu, 573-884-1115