One of the challenges most frequently voiced by people in the telemedicine industry is the slow pace of change. States have been slow to pass legislation permitting physicians in one state to practice medicine in another so that they can write prescriptions and provide medical care. But by sticking to relatively basic medical needs and steering clear of prescribing non-controlled substances, Teladoc has built a business that claims to have 5 million users across 49 states.
This month it became the first telemedicine company to win a Red Herring award — given in recognition to 100 of 3,000 technology finalists.
The company claims to be the oldest telemedicine company and offers its service 24/7 to people who have a non-emergency medical issue or at least think they don’t. Its state licensed board certified doctors see patients online through a video conference line and on the phone and treat illnesses such as cold and flu symptoms,bronchitis, allergies, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections and sinus problems. Teladoc charges users $38 for its service per visit on their credit card and they can get a receipt for deductibles or reimbursement, according to its website. It also only provides short term prescriptions.
Perhaps one reason the company has been able to grow is that it views its service as fulfilling a need rather than a substitute for a family physician since it is geared for people who want to see a doctor sooner rather than later. For that reason, patients don’t get to choose their doctor from the ones it uses. Teladoc’s physicians tend to be semi-retired, emergency room physicians who see patients in their off hours and those who see Teladoc patients as part of their workday.
One of the greatest needs telemedicine hopes to fill is access to healthcare not just for people who live a great distance from healthcare facilities or lack a particular specialist in their region but also for those with limited time to spare as well.
