Branching into Roanoke Valley, telemedicine allows patients to video chat doctors

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ROANOKE (WSLS10) - Technology is advancing quickly in the telemedicine industry. Doctors at Carilion Clinic are working to bring a unique practice to main stream healthcare option here in the Roanoke Valley.

A telemedicine program would allow a patient fighting a cough or common aliment to easily video chat with a doctor to get a prescription. But, in taking away face-to-face conversation, the big question is: how accurate is the diagnosis?

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Instead of waiting for an office visit, the idea is to provide immediate care. A patient could request a video chat, talk to a doctor and get medication if needed all in the same day.

It's similar to Facetime or Skype. But the conversation would happen over a secured, Carilion network.

"You're getting that care when you would like to have that care as opposed to when I would like to have that care," said Dr. Stephen Morgan, Carilion's chief medical information officer. "And, it's cost effective."

Morgan said the service is significantly cheaper than a usual co-pay. And, patients can save on gas not having to drive to their primary care doctor -- this applies particularly to those living in rural areas.

"That's why telemedicine is taking off, because you can provide equal service for less cost to the patient," said Morgan.

But, some question the accuracy of a diagnosis without seeing the problem in person.

"This is what we're trying to learn," commented Morgan. "Most systems really limit the type of diagnosis based on what you're able to do through a video. So, in some cases you do need to have that extra examination. And, in those cases you would probably need to bring the patient in. But, in a lot of cases you don't need that additional information."

Morgan said in looking at similar programs in larger cities, typically telemedicine is commonly used to treat uncomplicated conditions like colds or urinary tract infections.

"Something like chest pain you wouldn't want to try to diagnose over video conference," Morgan added.

At this point, management at Carilion has only held preliminary conversations about a patient-doctor telemedicine program. There are still many aspects of the program that have yet to be finalized.