In a consumer market saturated with telehealth choices, Chicago-based Rush University System for Health has launched its own nationwide digital care membership service called Rush Connect+ available at $19 per month or $189 annually.

Rush says the new service includes a direct line to a real human assistant, available seven days a week by live chat or phone, to quickly answer questions or curate appointments, plus 24/7 virtual urgent care access nationwide.

Rush Connect is the health system’s umbrella platform for virtual primary care, virtual urgent care, mobile app, and chatbot support — and a new virtual specialty care program that offers same-day or next-day access to specialty care.

“There are many options for virtual care these days, but none is as comprehensive or connected into the fabric of the top-quality health system as what we have created on our Rush Connect platform,” said Paul Casey, M.D., M.B.A., senior vice president and chief medical officer at Rush. “Rush Connect+ is a natural extension of that platform to create a seamless, concierge-level care navigation experience and access to 24/7 virtual urgent care anywhere in the country.”

In addition to Rush Connect+, the health system says that Rush Connect can expedite access to specialty care with Rush Connect Virtual Specialty Care. Currently available for eight specialties, patients looking to solve problems ranging from acne to high blood pressure, as well as more private concerns about sexual health and weight loss, can find appointments available almost immediately.

“Let’s say you have a new concern about your heart. Healthcare is already difficult enough to navigate, and waiting weeks or months to see a cardiologist often keeps patients from making an appointment,” explained Ben Wolfe, senior director for digital transformation, in a statement. “With Rush’s suite of virtual specialty care options, patients can see a provider today or tomorrow — providing peace of mind without the wait.”

A new "My Rush" app — being fully rolled out to patients later this year — brings MyChart features and access to all Rush Connect services, appointment scheduling, care team messaging and help from an AI-powered assistant.

Additionally, on Rush’s newly redesigned appointment scheduling page, patients are able to launch an AI-powered chatbot and symptom checker to find the right care for their needs and quickly access care in just a few taps, the organization said.