Opponents say getting medical advice over a computer or telephone is appropriate only when patients already know their doctor. Others are concerned that lower co-payments, and other incentives, will spur consumers to see doctors or nurses online just too save money. The argument is that people will choose the more economical option, even if it is not the option they want. Employers, however, will reap the most benefit.
Employees appreciate the low cost, convenience and efficiency. Online consultations can run as low as $10 compared to $100 for a face-to-face visit. The global telemedicine business is projected to almost triple to $27 billion in 2016, according to BBC Research. Virtual care is a form of communication whose time has come and can be instrumental in lowering costs.
One major obstacle remains. Many state medical boards make it difficult for doctors to practice telemedicine, especially interstate care, by requiring a prior doctor-patient relationship, sometimes involving a prior medical exam. The situation in these states is getting worse, not better. In 2010, the Texas Medical Board effectively created a rule which blocks a physician from treating new patients via telemedicine.
The only exception is if the patient has been referred by another physician who evaluated him or her in person. The Texas Medical Board insists on licensing doctors in their state so that if something goes bad, a patient is injured, they have means to help. From my point of view, this is a fair argument provided it is true. Some medical boards are reducing restrictions, in mostly rural states, such as Nevada and New Mexico easing the licensing process.
The most common problems treated online are routine sinus and bladder infections, pinkeye, upper respiratory illness and minor skin rashes. The patient completes a questionnaire (takes about 15 minutes) then connects with a physician via webcam, Internet connection and microphone. The physician then sends an electronic prescription to the pharmacy that can be picked up in minutes. NowClinic and Virtuwell are just two companies that currently offer this type of service to employers.
Telemedicine is not intended to replace the intimacy of a patient-doctor relationship instead the intent is to supplement it through efficiency and lower costs. Every self-insured employer should be taking a serious look into telemedicine for both its employees and bottom line.
