MyHealth Messaging for Non-Urgent Concerns
MyHealth messaging is a great way to communicate with your care team about non-urgent matters, and it’s important to remember that messages may take up to a week for a response. For urgent concerns, please call us to schedule a visit or speak with an advice nurse. For emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Some services provided through MyHealth messaging are now a standard part of healthcare. Beginning on November 17, 2025, Metro Pediatrics will bill for message requests that require a provider to spend five or more minutes of their clinical time and expertise to respond.
Services That Result in a Charge
A fee will be charged for these services below, which often involve a detailed review of your child’s records or clinical assessment.
Examples of these services include:
- New symptoms or issues that require assessment or a referral.
- Adjustments to medications.
- Chronic disease check-ins and management.
- A change in a chronic or long-term condition.
- Requests to fill out a form that requires a provider’s medical input.
Services That Won’t Be Charged
Most services requested through MyHealth messaging will continue to be free of charge, including:
- Scheduling an appointment.
- Prescription refills.
- Questions that result in an appointment.
- Follow-ups for issues discussed within the past week or a recent surgery.
- Follow-up care after a procedure.
- Quick updates that don’t need a medical response.
Billing Your Insurance
Every insurance plan is different. While most cover the cost of these services, your copay or deductible may still apply. Metro Pediatrics will bill your insurance provider directly. For the most accurate information about your coverage, please contact your insurance plan. If you have questions about a bill, you can reach our billing team at 503-466-1668.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are services requested through MyHealth messaging covered by my insurance?
Most insurance plans will cover these costs. You should verify with your specific insurance plan to confirm if this service is covered.
Did I agree to be charged for using this service?
Yes. Before sending a message, you accepted a disclaimer in your MyHealth account acknowledging that some services provided through messaging may have a fee.
When is the charge applied?
The charge is applied at the completion of the conversation.
How much will I pay after insurance?
Each insurance plan is different, and your normal copay, coinsurance, and deductible will apply. Financial assistance is available.
Who do I speak to about this charge if I have questions or concerns?
Please contact our helpful billing team at 503-466-1668.
Why wasn’t I charged for this in the past?
MyHealth messaging, like phone and video visits, has expanded to become a standard part of healthcare. Providers are offering more patient services through convenient MyHealth messaging. We waited to implement message fees until more insurance plans covered the cost, and it’s consistent with billing practices at other medical groups like Legacy, Providence, and OHSU.
Did you notify me of this change?
Yes, all Metro Pediatrics patients with a MyHealth account were notified of this change in a message from us on November 12, 2025.