Advances in Telemedicine
Health systems and startup companies are using apps, websites and remote kiosks to provide physician appointments wherever and whenever patients need them. Here’s a look at four services aimed at health care consumers.
Board-certified physicians licensed in Virginia are available 24/7 via an app and website to diagnose, recommend treatment and prescribe medication when appropriate. Sentara Healthcare’s service costs $45 per consultation.
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A video-conferencing kiosk with physician-controlled Bluetooth tools, including a remote stethoscope, HealthSpot is providing hospitals and pharmacies with an on-site alternative to minute clinics. Physicians affiliated with Cleveland Clinic and other hospitals provide the service. HealthSpot accepts most insurance.
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Video consultation with a physician, psychologist or lactation consultant is available via an app or on the Web through Doctor On Demand. Patients can get questions answered by board-certified physicians and, where state law allows, medical diagnoses and prescriptions via video. Prices vary, with a standard consultation at $40 per session; psychologist visits are $50 for a 25-minute session and $95 for a 50-minute session.
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Free answers to medical questions or virtual medical appointments for a fee are available through HealthTap, a 2015 Webby Award winner. The service comes via in-app messages, text chat and video consultation. The cost is either $44 per visit or $99 per month.