‘Windows Virtual Desktop’ offers authorized users a new way to access key Michigan Medicine resources

As more Michigan Medicine faculty and staff work remotely, convenient access to key resources is more important than ever.

That’s why HITS is pleased to announce ‘Windows Virtual Desktop’ — a new service that connects authorized users with a streamlined set of tools and services (including MiChart) — available using any device, any browser and without the need for VPN.

To help preserve bandwidth/availability for those who need it most, access to Windows Virtual Desktop is being limited to those who don’t have a Michigan Medicine-supplied Core device (desktop or laptop) available for remote work and for whom Remote Desktop Access is not a practical alternative. (Compare options.)

To request access to Windows Virtual Desktop, click here. You should receive a message confirming your enrollment, along with set-up instructions, within one business day.

Key details:

• Windows Virtual Desktop features include:
  • MiChart
  • Outlook (email and calendar)
  • Microsoft Office 2016 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, etc.)
  • Skype for Business (instant messaging and screen-sharing only)
  • Browsers (Internet Explorer, Chrome)
  • Access to H:/S:/T: Drives
  • Michigan Medicine Web Apps and Sites (unless add-in required)
• Windows Virtual Desktop does not currently support audio or video conferencing — so applications that require them are not compatible, including:
  • MiChart with Video (Warp Drive)
  • Jabber
  • Aspect
• Additional features and capabilities will be added frequently, so users are encouraged to visit the Windows Virtual Desktop Getting Started Guide for complete user-support documentation, including product updates.

Need help?

• Click: Online service portal  
  • Live Chat Support available M-F, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • “Virtual Assistant” — click the purple icon, bottom-right.
  • HITS Tech Guide to Working Remotely
• Call: 734-936-8000