Manley Highlights Telehealth Program for COVID-19 Care

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – To assist residents afflicted with COVID-19 in accessing necessary medical supplies and care, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is highlighting the new Illinois COVID-19 Virtual Care Program.

“This new program is a great step forward in the fight against the pandemic, by connecting residents with mild or moderate COVID-19 symptoms with medical professionals and quality care to help them stay home and out of the hospital,” said Manley. “By ensuring patients with moderate symptoms are able to stay home, this program allows our medical workers and first responders fighting on the front lines to prioritize resources for the most critically ill, ensuring our health care system is not overwhelmed as cases continue to rise.”

The Illinois COVID-19 Virtual Care Program is available to all Illinois residents, regardless of their health insurance coverage. Through the program, patients with COVID-19 are able to have daily telehealth visits with a medical care provider to monitor their symptoms. Additionally, patients can receive wellness kits with important medical supplies, like thermometers, pulse oximeters, blood pressure cuffs, alcohol wipes and masks. Under this new program, residents can also access food, transportation and other services through the Illinois Department of Public Health.

To enroll in the Illinois COVID-19 Virtual Care Program, text CARE and your Illinois zip code to 36363. For example, Romeoville residents would text CARE 60446 to 36363. After texting, you will receive a text message with additional information on COVID-19 symptoms, screening, telehealth providers and other wellness tips.

“The COVID-19 Virtual Care Program will help ensure residents who are sick get the care they need safely and quickly,” continued Manley. “As we have begun to see another rise in COVID-19 cases, it is critical that we each continue to do our part to flatten the curve by staying home as much as possible and following other important guidelines.”