Telemedicine has become more and more popular in recent times because of its unrivaled convenience. Combined with the booming number of mobile users throughout the United States, it was no more than a matter of time until someone clever combined the two.
In short, St. Luke’s University Health Network launched what it calls the St. Luke’s Anywhere app in January of 2016. Like its name suggests, the app lets users see and be seen by a medical professional in the network whenever and wherever they need it in much the same manner as Skype and similar apps. This way, said individuals can get the healthcare that they need without actually heading into the physical offices, which is particularly convenient if they either have problems making such journeys or cannot spare the time from their busy schedules.
Of course, the use of the app will not be free since each use will come with a $49 fee that can be paid by credit card. Furthermore, it is important to note that the use of the app will be limited to either adults who are 18 or older or children between 12 and 18 who are accompanied by their guardians. Interested individuals can find it on either Google Play, the iTunes App Store, or even the St. Luke’s University Health Network for use on either their Android devices, Apple devices, or even computers. Using it is as simple as installing the app, creating an account, and then signing it when in need.
Summed up, St. Luke’s Anywhere app is an excellent example of how better telecommunication is changing the way that we access healthcare. Although it cannot compare to heading into the physical offices of medical professionals when it comes to more dangerous medical conditions, it is nonetheless useful for treating more common complaints including but not limited to flu, fever, coughing, earaches, headaches, and abdominal pains. As a result, it is not only beneficial for its users but also for the St. Luke University Health Network by enabling more efficient provision of healthcare.