MDS continues virtual appointments in Phase 2A

  • Published
  • By Lauren Russell
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The 66th Medical Squadron will continue to maximize the use of virtual care during Phase 2A of the multiphase return to full capacity here.

Access to the medical clinic will be by appointment only, and members should continue using the Military Health Systems Secure Messaging tool to communicate directly with primary care teams.

“During the virtual appointment, the provider may feel it’s necessary for a face-to-face appointment, and ask the patient to come to the clinic,” said Mark Jenner, 66 MDS group practice manager.

Jenner said the clinic will no longer be referring patients off base for routine care, such as preventative medicine or readiness requirements. Walk-in services remain on hold in Phase 2A, but radiology, immunization and laboratory services are available by appointment only. Annual eye exams are available for active-duty military members.

“Patients are required to coordinate all visits through the appropriate department, and should not bring guests with them for appointments,” he said.

Patients can book an appointment online at www.tricareonline.com, by sending a secure message at app.tolsecuremessaging.com, or by calling the clinic appointment line at 781-225-6789. 

Parents or guardians may schedule face-to-face wellness checks for children 12 months and younger. However, school and sports physicals are unavailable at this time.

“Our clinic officials are reviewing federal and state guidance for both school and sport requirements and working to determine the safest way to conduct such examinations,” said Jenner.

The Dental Clinic will see patients who are overdue for dental examinations, dental emergencies and sick calls. Routine cleanings performed during exams are not available. Patients should contact the Dental Clinic at 781-225-6324 for potential same-day sick calls. 

“The main driver throughout this transition is the safety of our patients and our staff while continuing to deliver first-class care,” said Jenner.

For information on clinic operations, or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact the clinic at 781-225-6789.

A complete list of base services and facilities available in Phase 2A, as well as up-to-date COVID-19 information, can be found at www.hanscom.af.mil/coronavirus