There are many benefits and advantages in telemedicine: the elimination of the need for travel, reduction in the cost of healthcare because of increased efficiency, and an increase in the ability to reach people in rural areas (for example) or others who may otherwise be cut-off from primary or specialized care. Additionally, studies have not only proven the overwhelming efficacy of telemedicine but are even showing it to be a superior method of healthcare delivery in some specialties, particularly mental health. Telemedicine provides better patient monitoring and, according to the American Telemedicine Association, provides “greater outcomes and patient satisfaction”.
Convenience, economy (it saves time and money!), wider access, and superior quality are only some of the major benefits of telemedicine. Other positive considerations are the capability for real-time correspondence, quick turnaround on test results, the ability to see multiple doctors and receive “second opinions” from any number of specialists from a distance, and privacy and safety assurance, as telemedicine is fully HIPAA compliant.
At Second Opinion Physician, client care usually begins with an initial consultation with Dr. David Epstein, either online (Skype or email) or by phone. The consultation is then followed by the scheduling of lab tests, to be carried out by our partners at Lab Corp and Direct Lab. This can be done no matter what state a client may live in.
In his capacity of practicing telemedicine for mental illnesses, Dr Dave will request tests which will analyze the client’s brain chemistry based on nutrient levels (please see our Blog section for interesting articles and descriptions of these various nutrients and their effects on our brains and overall health!). Once payment is received and the test results are submitted, our doctor will review the labs, and the client will receive a comprehensive list of supplements specific to their biochemistry profile. It’s that easy!
A note on insurance: patients should be sure to ask their insurance providers if out-of-state physician consultations are covered, as well as lab testing. Many insurance providers do reimburse for Lab Corp testing.
Telemedicine is growing in demand as patients catch on to its vast advantages. Also growing in demand are natural treatments for depression and other mental health concerns. Second Opinion Physician provides all of these! Call us today for a free pre-consultation, or use the online chat to set up an initial consultation!
We look forward to supporting your greater health and happiness.