What Is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine was developed to serve a growing number of people in need of medical services but unable to access care at the appropriate level. Every day, thousands of patients are deferring treatment they need because they do not have convenient access to care. Thousands more seek care at the ER, the doctor’s office or an urgent care clinic that could have been provided much more quickly, conveniently, safely and cost-effectively over the phone or online. Telemedicine is a fast-growing, multi-billion dollar marketplace today improving consumer healthcare around the globe. The American Medical Association has reported that as many as 70% of all doctor visits are for information only or for matters that can be handled over the phone. Data shows that over 36 million Americans have been treated through telemedicine tele-consultations.

History of Telemedicine

Telemedicine began as a set of tools for healthcare professionals to use for sharing medical information, images and data over long distances. It was cumbersome, expensive, required specialized hardware, and was only suitable for professional to professional communications; the patient was not directly involved.

Telemedicine 1.0 Telemedicine 2.0
Hardware heavy Cloud-based
Primary care <-> Specialist Patient <-> Physician
Extremely expensive Reduces costs and generates revenue
Specialized technology, difficult to use Easy access for all in real-time
Hospital-driven Consumer-driven
Wait drive – not real time Faster Access = Better outcomes
Lost leader for most Value for all stakeholders

Today, Consult A Doctor is pioneering a new generation of telemedicine. Telemedicine 2.0 which involves direct patient to physician communications on demand. There is no waiting, no driving, no appointment necessary, no claims and no one is denied. Instead of just addressing remote collaboration, we are tackling big economic issues like cost controls, access to care, over-use of inappropriate care settings, loss of productivity and the economic sustainability of physician practices.

Who Can Benefit From Telemedicine?

  • Companies
    Telemedicine provides employees with a premium healthcare benefit that reduces overall healthcare costs.
  • Elderly, Immobile or Housebound
    Telemedicine is a very useful option for those that have a hard time getting to the doctor's office.
  • Uninsured & Underinsured
    Patient-paid telemedicine is a great option for uninsured, part-time or contract workers looking for affordable, quality medical care.
  • Business or Frequent Traveler
    Accessing care when away from home can be challenging, uncertain and expensive. Telemedicine offers access to quality care (including prescriptions) from anywhere at anytime.
  • Residents of Remote Areas
    For individuals and families that do not have local access to a doctor or hospital, telemedicine is an essential healthcare resource.
  • Students
    Telemedicine is ideal for students and recent graduates because it is affordable, offers immediate coverage regardless of employment status and is accessible from anywhere.
  • Self-Employed
    Telemedicine is a great alternative for those that are looking for affordable basic medical coverage options.