ValueOptions® Launches Provider Relations Web site
On-line Resources Puts Interactive Health Tools at Clinicians Fingertips
Norfolk, Virginia — February 22, 2006
ValueOptions announced today the launch of a new Web site for its health care provider network designed to help clinicians engage their patients to actively participate in their own treatment and recovery.
The new site gives providers direct access to credible clinical content, featuring nearly 4,000 articles on over 200 topics including: depression, stress, anxiety, substance abuse, relationships, grief, parenting/elder care, and workplace issues. The site includes news items, interactive calculators and quizzes, trainings and other resources.
"We saw a great need in the community for a tool that would allow health care workers to proactively push information out to consumers," said Sabrina Houser, ValueOptions' vice president of corporate provider relations. "Members can read articles and information that their doctors recommend in the privacy of their own homes, while providers can rest assured that the information has been developed by experts in the industry and is not just anecdotal advice their patient has found somewhere on the Internet."
Providers have the option of printing out information to share with their patients during an office visit or referring members directly to the site so that each member can address their concerns in a convenient and confidential manner. A Spanish version of the site is also available.
"For people who are struggling with mental or emotional issues, a visit to the doctor's office often creates additional anxiety. Sometimes, people are reluctant to fully discuss their symptoms and treatment options with their doctor," said Theresa Marquez, LCSW, LMFT, LCDC, a clinical practitioner with Theresa E. Marquez P.C. and Associates. "For these people, helping them learn about their condition often makes them more willing to admit and work on their problems. This Web site is a great resource for people to investigate and learn about themselves and what options are available to them."