For many people with health coverage, getting a specialist appointment can mean long waits, hours of travel, and time away from work or family. But there’s a new, faster way for primary care doctors to connect patients with specialist advice — and it’s already part of participating health plans. It’s called an eConsult.
What is an eConsult?
An eConsult (short for electronic consultation) is a secure, web-based system that allows your primary care provider (PCP) to ask a specialist a question about your health — without you needing to see the specialist in person.
Think of it as your doctor getting a “second opinion” through a digital message. The specialist reviews your case, looks at your records or test results, and sends back guidance directly to your PCP. Your doctor then discusses the results with you and plans the next steps for your care.
How does it work?
- You visit your primary care provider.
During your appointment, your PCP identifies a question that would normally require a specialist’s input. - Your PCP submits an eConsult.
They send your information securely through the eConsult. - A specialist reviews your case.
Within a few days — sometimes within 24 hours — the specialist replies with detailed recommendations. - Your PCP discusses the results with you.
You stay informed and cared for, without the travel, wait, or extra appointments.
Who can use eConsults?
If you’re covered by participating health plans, your provider can submit an eConsult on your behalf. Patients don’t initiate eConsults themselves — your doctor decides when it’s appropriate. The service is available through participating care programs, so there may be lower costs to you.
Why it matters
For many patients, eConsults are a game changer:
- Faster answers: No more waiting weeks or months for a specialist appointment.
- No extra travel: Your care stays close to home, in partnership with your trusted primary care doctor.
- Better coordination: Your PCP and specialists collaborate directly, improving continuity and accuracy of care.
- Covered by health coverage: There’s potentially lower cost for eConsults — they’re part of your health plan benefits.
Whether you live in Denver or a remote mountain town, eConsults make it easier for your care team to act quickly and keep you informed. This digital bridge between doctors means fewer delays and better outcomes — especially for those managing chronic conditions or complex medical questions.
If you’re on participating health plans, ask your doctor whether an eConsult could help answer your health questions faster.