MDH launches telehealth pilot program for COVID treatment

Minnesota health officials have launched a new pilot program focusing on remote treatment of COVID-19.

Monday, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) announced a partnership with Cue Health to ensure that Minnesotans who test positive for COVID-19 can easily access care and treatments.

MDH says, effective immediately, any Minnesotan who tests positive either with a home test or lab-confirmed test can download the Cue Health app and sign up to have a virtual consultation with a licensed clinician. Those who are deemed good candidates for therapeutic treatments can get a prescription to their local pharmacy.

The department adds that all services, including the consultation, medication and delivery for those who live in certain areas of the state, will be at no cost to Minnesotans.

“This pilot program is another tool in Minnesota’s toolbox for limiting the negative impacts of COVID-19,” MDH Commissioner Jan Malcolm said. “Minnesotans who test positive will be able to more easily access therapeutics that can help them get on the road to recovery. We know that accessing therapeutics within five days of developing symptoms of COVID-19 can greatly improve outcomes and help Minnesotans to avoid severe illness or hospitalization. We are continuing to find new and innovative ways to reduce barriers to access for those therapeutics.”

MDH officials also continue to encourage Minnesotans to celebrate the holidays safely by testing, staying home if feeling sick or testing positive, and making sure everyone is up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 vaccinations.

For more information on the pilot program, click here.