Telemedicine is the use of technology to deliver health care services remotely. It can help you access your doctor without having to travel, wait in a crowded waiting room, or expose yourself to potential infections. But how do you choose the best platform for telemedicine? Here are some factors to consider and some examples of popular options.
The first thing to consider is what kind of telemedicine service you need and prefer. Do you want to communicate with your own doctor or a new one? Do you need a video call, a phone call, a chat, or a combination? Do you want to schedule an appointment or get on-demand care? Do you need a prescription, a referral, a lab test, or a follow-up? Depending on your answers, you may find some platforms more suitable than others.
The best platform for any practice is always going to be the one that is already integrated with your patient portal within your (EHR) electronic health record.
It's not whether you want to talk vs video. It's what portal is the easiest to use, what connects with your EMR, and which has a proven track record of keeping your data safe. Make sure you sign a BAA with any telehealth vendor so you are shifting HIPAA risk to them and don't carry it. But any provider should have a good cybersecurity policy to make sure they are safe and protected.
Opt for platforms with easy navigation for both patients and doctors. Prioritize secure video options to ensure confidential remote consultations. Platforms with integrated scheduling features streamline the telemedicine process for a seamless experience.
Choosing the right telemedicine platform starts with a clear understanding of your specific healthcare needs and preferences. Assess whether you're seeking to connect with your current healthcare provider or if you're open to consulting with a new one. The mode of communication is crucial; decide if you prefer video consultations, phone calls, text messaging, or a mix.
The second thing to consider is how much telemedicine will cost you and whether your insurance will cover it. Some platforms may charge a flat fee, a subscription, a co-pay, or a percentage of the service. Some may accept your insurance, some may not, and some may offer discounts or financial assistance. You should check with your insurance provider and the platform before you use telemedicine to avoid any surprises or hidden fees.
Understanding the financial aspect of telemedicine is vital. Costs can vary widely based on the platform, including flat fees, subscriptions, co-pays, or other billing models. Verify what your insurance plan covers regarding telemedicine services to prevent unexpected expenses. Some telemedicine platforms have partnerships with insurance providers, offering lower fees or co-pays, while others might operate independently, requiring out-of-pocket payment.
The third thing to consider is how the platform protects your privacy and security. Telemedicine involves sharing sensitive personal and medical information, so you want to make sure it is encrypted, stored, and transmitted securely. You also want to know who has access to your data, how it is used, and how you can control it. You should read the platform's privacy policy and terms of service carefully and ask questions if you have any doubts.
When engaging in telemedicine, the security of your personal and medical information is paramount. Investigate the platform's commitment to privacy and data security, focusing on encryption protocols for data storage and transmission. Understand the platform's policy on data access, usage, and patient rights over their information.
The fourth thing to consider is whether your device and internet connection are compatible with the platform. You may need a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, or a desktop computer with a camera, a microphone, and a speaker. You may also need a reliable and fast internet connection, preferably with Wi-Fi or broadband. You should test your device and internet before you use telemedicine to avoid any technical issues or interruptions.
Before committing to a telemedicine service, ensure your hardware and internet connection meet the platform's technical requirements. The necessity for specific devices (smartphone, tablet, computer) equipped with a camera, microphone, and speakers is common.
The fifth thing to consider is what other users think of the platform. You can read feedback and reviews from other patients who have used telemedicine to get an idea of the quality, reliability, and satisfaction of the service. You can also ask your doctor, your friends, your family, or your coworkers for recommendations or referrals. You should look for platforms that have positive ratings, testimonials, and credentials.
Gathering insights from other patients who have utilized telemedicine platforms can offer valuable perspectives on the quality and reliability of different services. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and ratings can highlight the strengths and weaknesses of a platform, including the ease of use, quality of care, and customer support.
During COVID, I transitioned to Doximity, which is a secure platform where I can connect with my patients via video. The app can send a text message to my patient that includes a link which opens the video chat. The patient doesn’t have to install anything! All they need is to have a smart phone. Doximity even allows me to have my office number appear instead of my personal phone number. I have used other telemedicine platforms, and Doximity has been my favorite since!
To provide a few examples of telemedicine platforms, here are some widely used and well-known ones. These are not endorsements or advertisements, but simply illustrations of the variety and features of telemedicine platforms. Teladoc connects you with board-certified doctors who can treat a range of conditions, while Amwell offers 24/7 access to doctors, specialists, and therapists. Doctor on Demand provides video visits with doctors, psychiatrists, and psychologists who can address physical and mental health needs. MDLive allows you to chat, call, or video with doctors, dermatologists, counselors, and psychiatrists. All of these platforms work with many insurance plans and employers and charge a co-pay or fee based on your plan and service.