Telemedicine's Impact on Workers' Compensation: A Revolution in Healthcare Delivery

The Rise of Telemedicine in Workers' Compensation

Telemedicine has rapidly become a buzzword in the realm of workers' compensation insurance. The Workers' Compensation Research Institute's (WCRI) 2019 Annual Issues and Research Conference dedicated a panel discussion to this transformative technology. Defined by the American Telemedicine Association (ATA) as the 'remote delivery of health care services and clinical information using telecommunications technology,' telemedicine offers a plethora of benefits, from improved access to healthcare services to reduced costs. Dr. Stephen Dawkins of Caduceus USA aptly described it as a 'tsunami that will change the paradigm of medical care.'

Telemedicine's Growth and Challenges

Dr. David Deitz of Deitz & Associates highlighted the exponential growth of telemedicine in the commercial health sector, citing an estimated 1.25 million telehealth visits in 2016. However, its integration into workers' compensation remains nascent, with several open questions regarding regulations, reimbursement models, and quality trade-offs. Kurt Leisure, vice president of risk services for The Cheesecake Factory, shared his company's experience with a telemedicine program for worker injuries, reporting $153,000 in savings in 2018. Despite initial success, challenges such as identifying telemedicine candidates and improving employee trust persist.

The Future of Telemedicine in Workers' Compensation

The panelists agreed that telemedicine holds immense potential for the workers' compensation industry, offering better case management and potentially reducing litigation rates. As telemedicine continues to evolve, it is crucial for stakeholders to address the current challenges and leverage its benefits. For readers, staying informed about the latest developments in telemedicine and its integration into workers' compensation can provide valuable insights for future planning and decision-making.