Patient-Doctor Relationship Forged Through Computer Screens

Missouri’s largest health insurer recently launched a new online patient-doctor interface, a move that reflects the growing importance of telehealth as the industry looks to curb costs and enhance patient access. More patients than ever are seeing their doctors through computer screens and smartphones. It’s a trend that shows no signs of subsiding as hospitals and insurance companies continue to roll out the latest technological advances. For patients, they can see a doctor without the inconvenience of traveling to an office and sitting in a waiting room. For doctors, it allows them to see more patients in an efficient, cost-effective way.

Anthem BlueCross BlueShield in Missouri said these factors led them to develop LiveHealth Online, a telemedicine platform that became available to all members in March. The platform visually connects customers to doctors around the country from their computer, tablet or phone. “This responds to a concern that people have raised,” said Dr. Jay Moore, the senior clinical director at Anthem. “It’s difficult sometimes for them to get care that is timely and efficient.” A doctor is on call 24/7 and LiveHealth Online costs no more than a regular copay for an office visit. Patients that aren’t Anthem members can also use the platform for $49 a visit. The American Telemedicine Association defines telemedicine as the “remote delivery of health care services and clinical information using telecommunications technology.” It says 200 networks and 3,500 service sites currently operate across the country. It’s also one of the fastest growing sectors in the health care industry. The American Medical Association, which represents doctors, expects the telemedicine market to grow from $1 billion next year to $6 billion by 2020. Lawmakers have also embraced telehealth. Missouri enacted a law in 2013 requiring insurance companies to reimburse for services rendered via telemedicine if the same service could be delivered in person. About 20 other states have similar laws.