Amazon buys One Medical
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/07/22/amazon-one-medical-faq/
I see the value of #efficiency and speed, but I'm still not on board with a lot of #telehealth. In many circumstances, it alienates non-techy #patients and the #elderly.
It also leaves more room for #medicalmistakes and potentially dangerous issues being overlooked by seeing your #doctor through a #smartphone or PC versus in person.
I saw it with a family member that could have never participated in a telehealth visit if I didn't lead the technology part for him. I also brought my personal blood pressure machine and scale. These numbers are critical in many circumstances.
A lot can be missed. For example, #vitals, nonverbal communication, #hygiene, and anxiety, just to name a few.
Lastly, there is the #data. Do I want the same company that knows my #lifestyle, hobbies, and or #diet being managed by the same entity that is handling my #healthcare?
I do see a small #benefit with a clearly defined #population of a younger and more technically savvy #generation that can avoid frustrations of our current state of #healthcare and quickly get that specialist referral with a quick conversation from their home, but it's tricky and potentially hazardous.
It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
#amazon #telehealth #geriatrics #telemedicine #escript #change #hippa #databreach #communication #mentalhealth #technology #medical #generalpractitioner