In early December I discussed the merits of using Teladoc services for a Medicare client who became eligible for Medicare and a young Millennial who enrolled in his employers group health plan for the very first time. The Medicare beneficiary expressed no need to call a doctor she’d never met nor wanted a virtual medical diagnosis. It was a foreign concept and a technology that seemed cold and not inviting. The Millennial downloaded the app in three minutes.
Fast forward to March 24, 2020 and the CDC, State and Local Governments, as well as all major health insurers in this country are recommending the way to access care given the Corona pandemic is with a Teladoc service. It’s amazing how technology will not only save lives but save lots of money over the next three months. It’s also encouraging to see how fast Seniors can use technology that may very well save their life – as they have become the most vulnerable during the Pandemic crisis.
Teladoc was founded in 2002 in Dallas, Texas as a way to help employers control healthcare costs. Doctors can prescribe treatment for non-emergency conditions like flu, allergies, bronchitis, and more. Dermatologists can diagnose and treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne and more through images you upload.
Since 2002, Teladoc services have exploded with the primary purpose of saving valuable claims dollars. We never expected a pandemic that affected so many Americans, never expected the technology can be deployed from a smart phone or an 800 number, and never expected the government to adopt Teledoc guidelines in less than a week.
Regardless of how you are insured- you probably have access to a Teladoc service. Medicare, Medicaid, employer plans, and individuals covered under the Healthcare Marketplace have the ability to reach out to a virtual provider.
For more information regarding your specific plan, do not hesitate to call your insurance carrier, or give us a call or email. We will be glad to send you guidance on how to access care.
