MyChart Messaging
Mercy’s MyChart is a useful tool for patients to access and manage their personal health information. The messaging function within MyChart is an option for communicating directly with your provider and/or your provider’s office to follow-up on appointments, ask questions or get clarity on a health question.
Please note: Some messages may result in a charge from your provider, depending on what is required of the provider. The information below provides some additional information to ensure you are informed about possible charges.
Will I be charged for every MyChart message I send to my provider?
No, not every message is billed. Only messages that require medical evaluation and care recommendations may be billed for by your provider. Examples of message types that may be billed for could include, but are not limited to:
- New symptom evaluation
- Evaluation of change in health condition
- Evaluation of prescription change or modification
- A medical condition that may require a referral for additional evaluation
How is it determined whether or not I am charged for the message?
The provider will determine based on the scope of the message and the level of intervention required to appropriately address the message you have sent. Only messages that require medical evaluation and care recommendations may be billed for by your provider.
Will I be charged each message sent back and forth about the same medical issue?
No. If a charge applies, you will only be charged once for the same medical issue within a seven-day period.
Will my insurance cover this charge?
Coverage varies by insurance provider. Your insurance will be billed first. Standard deductible and co-payments may apply. If your insurance does not cover the messaging, you will be billed directly. We recommend reaching out to your insurance provider to determine your coverage.
How do I determine if I should schedule a video visit instead of sending a message regarding my medical question?
We understand it may be difficult to determine if a question or concern can be easily addressed through messaging. If you are uncertain, we would recommend contacting your provider’s office for direction or simply scheduling a video visit or in-office visit to be certain.
Is there a way to know if I will be charged for a provider response prior to sending my message?
No. A decision on if it will result in a charge and billed to insurance cannot be made until a provider reviews your message.
However, to learn more about the cost for a MyChart Message, please call (319) 369-4520 and refer to MyChart Message codes 99421-99423. Please use these codes when calling for a price estimate.
Examples of messages that could result in a charge:
- Hi Dr. Smith, I think I have a bladder infection again. I think I may need an antibiotic.
- The medicine does not seem to be working. Could I maybe try a higher dose?
- My poison ivy is getting worse, can you call in the steroid medication I have received in the past?
- I twisted my ankle; can you order an X-ray for me?
Examples of messages that would NOT result in a charge:
- I am updating you on how I am feeling. I am doing much better, so I would like to stay on the medication.
- Is it okay to take Tylenol with the other medication that you prescribed?
- For clarity, should I take 10 mg or 30 mg of (over-the-counter medication) daily?
- I have a rash; do you think I need to come in for an appointment?
