What Are Medicare Telehealth Communication Devices?

Telehealth is a program run by Medicare and Medicaid, which are federal agencies. Its main purpose is to help patients and health-care providers connect via audio and video conferences when the patients would otherwise be unable to obtain care.

Devices

• Telehealth devices are any electronic communication devices used in the audio or video transmission of Telehealth services.

Usage

• Telehealth is used for non-emergency consultations such as check-ups, wound checks and conversations about medications.

Health Benefits

• In the August 21, 2009 issue of Telemedicine Information Exchange (TIE), Dr Richard Berkley, clinical lead on the Telehealth, stated that patients remain independent, out of emergency rooms and away from urgent care clinics. Dr. Berkley reported that patients who use Telehealth services are inclined to monitor their own conditions better and are more complaint in taking their medications.

Rural Areas

• Patients in rural areas stand to benefit greatly from Telehealth services. It reduces time and cost for the patient regarding travel to the nearest city that has a doctor specializing in his need, according to the TIE.

Increase in Use

• As of September 14, 2009, TIE reported an increase in use of Telehealth services. While TIE did not release exact percentages, the company attributed this change to a decreased number of available physicians and insurance companies accepting charges for Telehealth conferences.

Future of Telehealth

• In 2009, H.R. 2068, the Medicare Telehealth Enhancement Act of 2009, was introduced in House of Representatives to enhance Medicare Telehealth. The bill was introduced by Rep. Michael Thompson (D-CA) and, as of November 2009, was being reviewed by the House Energy and Commerce Committee.