What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine was developed to serve a growing number of people in need of medical services but unable to access care at the appropriate level. Every day, thousands of patients are deferring treatment they need because they do not have convenient access to care. Thousands more seek care at the ER, the doctor's office or an urgent care clinic that could have been provided much more quickly, conveniently, safely and cost-effectively over the phone or online. Telemedicine is a fast-growing, multi-billion dollar marketplace today improving consumer healthcare around the globe. The American Medical Association has reported that as many as 70% of all doctor visits are for information only or for matters that can be handled over the phone. Data shows that over 36 million Americans have been treated through telemedicine tele-consultations.