by Bill Maher
The American Telemedicine Association defines telemedicine as the “remote delivery of healthcare services and clinical information using telecommunications technology.”
Thanks to the advent of videoconferencing technology, smartphones, and convenient phone applications, telemedicine is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing employer-sponsored benefits. Changing technology isn’t the only thing contributing to telemedicine’s popularity. Most telemedicine programs are 24/7, and over 70% of claims can be resolved remotely, so it’s incredibly convenient for the individual, who would otherwise take time off work or drive to an urgent care facility or emergency room. Since the patient speaks with a doctor during the consultation, the patient receives diagnosis, treatment and prescribed medications (when applicable).
Employers also benefit from telemedicine. According to a 2013-2014 study by Towers Watson, telemedicine helps with absenteeism and lost productivity. It’s a win-win benefit because it’s high-value, and when coupled with the right strategy, it can save employees and employers significant dollars.
Telemedicine vendors can be accessed through health care providers, employer-sponsored health plans, insurance carriers, private exchanges, and brokers and benefit consultants. When seeking out a telemedicine provider for your company or yourself, consider a few things:
1. The cost to visit the doctor
2. The hours of operation
3. Whether the consultation impacts claims
4. Network and availability of doctors
5. Member satisfaction surveys
Talk with your benefits adviser today to discuss the most appropriate telemedicine solution for your company and how to effectively communicate it to employees and dependents.
Bill Maher is a founder and the manager partner of Maher, Rosenheim, Comfort & Tabash LLC, a benefits firm in St. Louis.
Submitted 9 years 120 days ago