To improve patient access and cost management across the care continuum, many hospitals and health systems are using telehealth technologies to deliver high quality care in a timely fashion. The term “telehealth” refers to a group of technologies and clinical services facilitated by the electronic exchange of medical information. Established telehealth services are divided into three modalities: store and forward, live consultations, and remote monitoring.
Different reimbursement policies for different services
Across these three modalities, there are a variety of technologies that can be used to facilitate telehealth interactions. These platforms include virtual consult equipment like mobile videoconferencing carts, peripheral monitoring devices to measure patient biometrics, integrated EMR systems and patient portals to expedite information transfer, and HIPAA-compliant software programs that enable virtual visits. Many telehealth vendors have additionally developed mobile Health (mHealth) applications to track health metrics or promote health education via mobile or web-based platforms.
This primer is designed to clarify billing opportunities across a range of telehealth modalities and services. Download it now to review the latest trends in public and private reimbursement policies, and get the knowledge you need to assess the value and feasibility of telehealth investments.