How Telemedicine Can Reduce Workers’ Compensation Costs

The New Standard in Workers’ Comp

As businesses navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation and the ongoing pandemic, they are increasingly seeking efficient ways to promote employee health. Telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution, allowing employers to offer digital access to medical care for their workers. This technology connects employees with doctors and specialists using a range of devices, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. By leveraging telemedicine, businesses can potentially reduce healthcare costs and improve health outcomes for their employees.

Growth of Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic

As a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the healthcare industry has had to shift to meet the growing demand for more advanced technological offerings. Thus, telemedicine has grown significantly as patients and providers alike prefer remote consultations. According to recent surveys performed by workers’ compensation authorities, the use of telemedicine in the workplace has expanded dramatically since the start of the pandemic.

Telemedicine has rapidly evolved from a convenience or add-on service to a mainstream healthcare delivery platform, providing consultations, physical therapy, and other medical services. As the pandemic situation continues to develop, telemedicine is expected to adapt and expand its offerings to meet the ever-changing healthcare needs of the working population.

Benefits of Telemedicine and Workers’ Comp for Businesses

Time-Saving Appointments and Treatment

Employers frequently face the obligation to offer on-site triage—not only to comply with insurance regulations but also to promote a healthy, productive workforce. Quick response to everyday health issues like colds, the flu, minor cuts, and abrasions is vital. Yet, staffing a full-time healthcare provider on-site can be financially burdensome. Telemedicine offers an efficient, budget-friendly solution by connecting employees instantly with licensed physicians or specialists who can deliver accurate diagnoses and timely treatment recommendations—without the high costs of in-person care.

Improved Healthcare Access for High-Risk Industries

Telemedicine can indeed be game-changing for businesses in physically demanding industries such as construction. By having a telemedicine specialist available on-site, employees can quickly and easily receive medical consultations for non-emergency health issues. This can be especially beneficial for minor injuries, as a telemedicine consultation can be set up by their supervisor or safety officer without the need for the employee to take time off work for an in-person appointment. Ultimately, telemedicine can save businesses and employees time and money while still providing prompt and effective healthcare.

Mental Health Care for Employees

As society becomes more accepting of mental health conditions, workers may feel more comfortable seeking emotional and psychological support from specialists. Telemedicine offers a safe and convenient way for individuals to access therapy and coaching through video chat or text-based approaches, which can be particularly helpful for those who may feel anxious or hesitant about visiting a mental health specialist in person. This means that individuals can receive the behavioral health assistance they need quickly and easily, without having to worry about their condition worsening or feeling uncomfortable.

Help for Elderly and Rural Employees

Telemedicine can be especially helpful for aging workers, live in rural areas, or those with disabilities that make it difficult for them to travel to a doctor’s office. By providing them with remote access to healthcare, they can receive the medical attention they need without leaving their homes or workplaces. This not only helps with their recovery process but can also boost their overall well-being and morale. As the workforce ages, telemedicine can become a critical component of workers’ compensation programs, helping to keep workers healthy and productive while reducing healthcare costs for employers.

Better Health Outcomes

The most important benefit of telemedicine is its efficacy. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Numerous research studies indicate that telehealth yields clinical outcomes that are equivalent to or surpass those of conventional care, and that it enhances intermediate outcomes and patient satisfaction. Virtual physical therapy, for instance, requires zero travel time and ensures quick, direct access to specialists who can diagnose and recommend treatment programs in a HIPAA-compliant setting. Later, guaranteeing follow-up treatments for prescription refills and patient monitoring are as simple as logging back onto the service on a specified future date.

Provide Your Employees with Easy Doctor Access 24/7

Telemedicine has become a critical method for companies to reduce their workers’ compensation expenses. Moreover, employees are more content with their employers’ handling of their injuries and the medical care they receive.

At Alliance Direct Benefits, we’ve made it easy for employers to support their full-time, part-time, and even seasonal employees’ healthcare needs with Alliance Health. With unlimited access to our Telemedicine program, you can save money while guaranteeing your employees receive the medical care they need – whenever they need it.