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Telemedicine service gets pediatric partner for second opinions

One aspect of the telemedicine business has focused on second opinions. MDLIVE is adding a second opinion service for children. It seems a logical move since parents would be likely to seek second opinions for their children, especially if their child’s symptoms eluded primary care physicians. It  has added Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh as a […]

One aspect of the telemedicine business has focused on second opinions. MDLIVE is adding a second opinion service for children. It seems a logical move since parents would be likely to seek second opinions for their children, especially if their child’s symptoms eluded primary care physicians. It  has added Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh as a partner to provide second opinions for children’s families, according to a company statement.

As part of its deal with MDLIVE, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh will provide 24 hour access to pediatricians. The advice they offer is for pediatric patients who have first seen a primary care physician and would like confirmation that the diagnosis or treatment plan that is recommended is the best option, according to a company statement.

There are a few telehealth second opinion services that have come on the scene in recent years.  2ndMD customers are typically asked ahead of time to provide lab and test results, a physician’s assessment or recommendation for treatment for the patient’s condition. Within a few days, users can speak with two to five specialists, depending on their condition, through a 20-minute phone or video conference session. They can also access a summary of the opinions.

LifeIMAGE has customers share X-rays, MRI and CT scans as well as images from gastrointestinal scopes, nuclear medicine, and pictures taken with a camera of wounds.

MetaMD does personalized medical research for patients with complex conditions.

 

Cigna added MDLIVE for self-insured employers who are interested in testing telemedicine with their employees as part of their health program starting in January 2014.

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