Healthcare and Tech Industries Collaborate to Defeat COVID-19
“Our virtual care option enables us to reach patients wherever they are...”
Carbon Health, a technology-enabled healthcare company, is doing its part by spearheading a movement to flatten the COVID-19 curve. Founded in 2015, Carbon Health is based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Developed through a merger of modern urgent care clinics and its seamless Carbon Health app, the start-up is changing the face of healthcare.
The medical app component allows patients to schedule same-day virtual and in-office appointments, text their healthcare provider, order prescriptions, and view lab results. Their treatment services range from common colds, pediatric care, broken bones, UTI’s, mental health, COVID-19 testing, and now the COVID-19 serology antibody test. From the intake process to follow-up care information, access to your health is literally at your fingertips.
Earlier this year the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) began to change the lives of individuals across the U.S. The Carbon Health team of physicians, medical providers, engineers, and incredibly friendly staff have been able to efficiently fight COVID-19 with accessibility to testing. As early as February 2020 they launched the Coronavirus Self-Assessment Test and since then have partnered with the City of San Francisco, Alameda, and Los Angeles County to increase access to testing to underserved communities. Through their innovative concepts, they have been able to quickly adapt to the constant changes in COVID-19 protocols. That’s what I like to call staying ahead of the game!
I had the opportunity to chat with one of Carbon Health’s brilliant doctors, Justin Young, M.D. to talk about all the company has to offer. Dr. Young is a Meharry Medical School graduate and Emory University trained phenomenal primary care physician (and pretty cool across the board). Dr. Young is the lead M.D. at Carbon Health’s Pasadena and Echo Park locations. Here he provides some great insight!
Dr. Lina: Hey, Dr. Justin! You and your team have been working incredibly hard during this pandemic, so thank you for your time today! How has your experience been working at Carbon Health?
Dr. Justin: Yes, very busy! It’s been a great relationship with Carbon Health. It’s a fun place to work. The clinics are warm and welcoming, and we strive to give the best care possible. I believe patients notice these qualities and appreciate them.
Dr. Lina: How was Carbon Health able to adjust to the sudden impact of COVID-19?
Dr. Justin: We were able to jump on it in an intense way by connecting with patients through our technology features such as our Coronavirus assessment test, (which can be accessed through the Carbon app or online) virtual telemedicine appointments, and our daily symptom tracker. The virtual telemedicine appointments have allowed less exposure to the staff as well as triaging, managing, and screening patients at all of their locations in California. Also, we have expanded and are now offering virtual care in 16 U.S. states!
Dr. Lina: Wait, that’s exceptional care to 2/3 of the U.S. population! That’s exciting! Can you tell me about the mobile testing that Carbon Health is offering in the Bay Area and how long it takes for patients to receive their results? I thought the idea was very forward-thinking.
Dr. Justin: Yes, it’s very exciting! Testing is critical. It allows individuals to take the necessary precautions to prevent spreading the virus. So basically, Carbon Health and its partners are on the road testing for COVID-19 at various locations. You can find the locations and schedule an appointment here at Carbon Health Mobile Clinic. We also offer the same testing at any of our locations in Northern and Southern California. We are trying to keep as many people safe as possible and that starts with testing. The mobile testing option grants more people access to testing including lower-income and minority communities which is just as important. Our goal is to make COVID-19 testing accessible to everyone. Results can take anywhere from 3-6 days to process; patients will then receive information from a healthcare provider with the next steps.
Dr. Lina: What sets Carbon Health apart from other primary care and urgent care facilities?
Dr. Justin: I think the flexibility and ease of our electronic health records and quickly adapting to change while continuing to provide amazing care. Our virtual care option enables us to reach patients wherever they are, and healthcare providers can develop a patient relationship via their smartphone or computer. We can make a significant impact in communities that need it the most or may not have had access to it before. I think these attributes provide us the leverage to stand out.
Dr. Lina: I agree. What advice do you have for staying safe during this global pandemic?
Dr. Justin: I recommend getting a baseline test, wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing your hands. During these moments of peaceful protesting, I strongly recommend doing so safely. Get tested, wear a mask while participating, social distance as much as possible and frequent use of hand sanitizer. Regarding peaceful protesting if you feel symptoms or are sick, stay home and find other ways to join the fight. Also, be mindful of the self-care aspect during these stressful times. Find ways to assess how this is affecting your mental health. Check-in with yourself, friends, and family. Let’s be open and honest with ourselves and others to find ways to help each other cope.
Dr. Lina: Thanks, Dr. Justin. I feel like this was super helpful and informative.
Dr. Justin: Of course, anytime!
Whether it’s providing primary care (preventative and wellness care), urgent care, or the COVID-19 serology antibody test, Carbon Health is raising the bar to meet patient’s needs. As we all attempt to get through these unprecedented times it’s refreshing to know there are doctors like Dr. Justin Young and clinics like Carbon Health that are patient-centered and committed to the well-being of everyone including their staff. Carbon Health has conquered the unique ability to combine smart technology, inviting clinics, and quality patient care.
Their clinic sites are located throughout Northern California, Southern California, and Nevada, but don’t forget they are offering their virtual care services in 16 states within the U.S. Click here to download the Carbon App on your smart device-you won’t regret it. If not, don’t worry. You can also go online to Carbon Health to learn more about Carbon Health and book an in-office or virtual appointment. I hope everyone is staying safe, connected, and healthy!
-Dr. Lina