Telehealth Services

The City of Sandy Springs now offers telehealth services through its partnership with RightSite Health Physicians. Approved by the City Council in June 2024, this initiative provides on-site telehealth consultations with RightSite ER physicians for patients who call 911 with non-acute medical issues.

“Up to 30 percent of our weekly 911 calls are for non-life-threatening situations and do not require a trip to the ER,” said Fire Chief Keith Sanders. “While every 911 call is treated with the utmost priority, this new service offers an alternative to the emergency room for certain cases.”

Emergency room visits can cost over $2,000, but patients using RightSite’s telehealth service will be billed through their private insurance, similar to traditional telehealth visits. RightSite Health will offer a range of services, including scheduling doctor’s appointments, refilling medications, and arranging alternative transportation to urgent care clinics and other medical offices.

“By providing a telehealth option, we aim to alleviate the burden on EMS services and reduce unnecessary ER visits for our residents,” added Chief Sanders.

Prior to the launch, Fire and EMT personnel in Sandy Springs underwent extensive training. Phase one of the rollout is now in effect, with phase two scheduled for September 2024. This upcoming phase will enable the City to assess and direct 911 calls to either RightSite or an ambulance as needed. The final phase will include the hiring of a community paramedic to work directly with residents in Sandy Springs.

To learn more about RightSite, scan the QR code below.