A recent study from researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, C30 Medical Group
and the UCLA Medical Center found administrative burdens and limits on
reimbursement are some of the numerous obstacles standing in the way from more
health providers deploying video conferencing solutions to improve patient care and reduce overall
costs.
Telemedicine allows patients to receive treatment while living far
away from providers. The study showed primary impediments to the adoption and
success of telemedicine programs include licensing restrictions, limitations
associated with billing and reimbursement, and the need for credentials and
malpractice insurance specifically for telemedicine.
Dr. Bart
Demaerschalk, a neurologist and director of the Mayo Clinic Telestroke Program,
said these limitations are holding back many healthcare providers from
delivering expert care, overcoming service gaps and improving the quality of
care and patient satisfaction.
Dr. Herb Rogove, president and CEO of a
telemedicine provider who worked on the study as well, said most administrative
and nursing leaders are welcoming of telemedicine and the use of video conferencing services in healthcare. However, regulatory, financial and
cultural barriers stand in the way.
Rogove said regulatory barriers to
the adoption of the technology include obtaining licensure across multiple
states. Financially, some governmental bodies and commercial insurance carriers
are making it difficult for many facilities to afford to run the programs.
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