Leaders in both the healthcare industry and the government have endorsed the use of telehealth technology as a crucial tool for combating the spread of infectious diseases like the coronavirus (COVID-19).
By conducting virtual visits over the phone, orthopedic physicians can assess patients who may be infected with coronavirus (or may be immunocompromised) without risking exposure to themselves, their staff, and other patients. With new legislation allowing healthcare organizations to receive reimbursements for virtual visits, providers have started to make telemedicine a top priority.
The Federal government has passed the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020. The $8.3 billion emergency coronavirus funding package provides for the development of new treatments, boosts funding to purchase medical supplies, and allocates grants to states and localities for preparedness within 30 days.
The bill waives certain Medicare restrictions for telehealth, including that a beneficiary can use telehealth services even if they aren’t in a rural community. This provision also allows beneficiaries to receive care from physicians and other practitioners in their homes to avoid placing themselves at greater risk of contracting the virus.
Vice President Mike Pence announced that private U.S. health insurers have agreed to extend coronavirus treatment coverage in all their plans, waive copayment fees for testing, and cover telemedicine for patients to get care without having to leave their homes.
Telehealth virtual visits allow clinicians to screen patients who may be infected, without the risk of exposing patients and providers to the virus in their facilities.
There are several reasons for orthopedic practices to use telehealth solutions aside from preventing the spread of infectious diseases. For example, with a telemedicine solution, orthopedic clinics can:
Backline by DrFirst combines video conferencing with secure messaging, clinical file sharing, electronic form support, and other features - all in a comprehensive, HIPAA-compliant solution.
Backline is an easy-to-use, cost-effective platform with care collaboration features you won’t find in other telemedicine offerings. And, there's no registration process or app for patients to download.
The coronavirus presents an escalating situation that highlights the necessity of a collaborative healthcare ecosystem. We’re dedicated to assisting you with keeping your staff, patients, and their families safe and healthy.
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