Have you ever suffered through a bad cold or flu because you didn't want to deal with the time or logistics of going to the doctor? If so, you are like millions of other Americans who feel like their healthcare can be an inconvenience. We're here to tell you that, thanks to technology, that no longer has to be the case.
Telemedicine, defined as the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of technology, is becoming more common in the health care industry. If you don't have the time away from work or your family to dedicate for a physical treatment of your ailments, you may be able to access care through your smartphone, computer, or tablet. Most insurance carriers now have online doctor visits built into their health plans for the cost of a doctor's office copay. For example, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan now partners with a company called AmericanWell that provides care through a free downloadable app. After entering in your insurance information and a few pieces of basic personal information you can choose from several licensed doctors to consult on a variety on non-life threatening conditions. It's as easy as using Skype or FaceTime!
If you have health insurance through your employer you contact your HR department to find out how you can take advantage of this trend. Or you can call our experts in the benefits department on Team Ieuter, we have firsthand experience with telemedicine and can help you make your care a priority again.