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Virtual Doctor VisitsHealth care is now going virtual. American Well has set up an online system allowing patients to contact a board certified physician or medical specialist live, twenty-four hours per day, via phone or the Internet. American Well's new system provides consumers with the option of speaking with a physician or medical specialist anytime, without physically visiting an office or hospital.If the patient's medical problem is simple, it can be treated over the phone or Internet, but if it is complicated or an emergency, an office visit may be required or even a trip to the emergency room. The American Well system provides a web based, voice over, secure platform facilitating virtual consultations in real time with physicians or medical specialists. Patients can communicate virtually via the telephone, web cameras, text messaging, secure chat, or video conferences. American Well's system has collaborated with health insurance companies that will participate by reimbursing physicians and medical specialists for these virtual consultations. Physicians will not be paid as much for virtual consultations as they are for office visits, but they are more convenient for physicians as they can even consult with patients from the comfort of home. These virtual consultations will help physicians provide better, timelier care for patients. Consultations can help a physician know if a patient's condition warrants a visit to the office, a trip to the emergency room, or just a simple antibiotic for a recurring sinus infection. It is especially helpful for worrisome new parents, up all night with newborns who just need a little reassurance at 3AM in the morning, or for seniors with recurring conditions who have a difficult time getting to a physician's office. |