Online consultations

More insurances are reimbursing for e-consults:

When Tamara McCartney’s chronic sinusitis flared up this year, she knew she needed a prescription antibiotic.

But instead of embarking on a long drive to the doctor’s office in St. Cloud, Fla., and missing as much as a half-day of work, she spent less than 15 minutes at home completing an online questionnaire from her doctor. The next day, her Avelox prescription was waiting at a nearby pharmacy.

“When I get sinus infections, I don’t have to go to the doctor’s office. It’s a lot more convenient,” said McCartney, a 32-year-old Orlando office manager.

I don’t see this taking off in today’s malpractice climate. Essentially you’re diagnosing without seeing the patient. I’d like to see what happens after a few well-publicized lawsuits.

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