Consumer Demand for Virtual Care Remains High
Despite a slight increase in virtual health visits from 2022 to 2024, consumer willingness to use virtual care has grown significantly. A large majority of consumers (94%) are open to having another virtual visit, and many are even willing to switch doctors if virtual options aren’t available.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released an interim final rule that discontinues the low wage index hospital policy for FY 2025. This policy was implemented in 2020 to increase reimbursement rates for hospitals with low wage indexes. However, the policy was challenged in court and ultimately found to be unlawful.
AI-powered remote patient monitoring tools like symptom checkers, assessments, and digital self-triage are promising advancements in healthcare. These tools can improve patient experiences, streamline healthcare processes, reduce disparities in care, and enhance health outcomes by providing personalized and accurate care recommendations.
A recent survey found that over half of patients trust social media and online resources more than their doctors for health information. This shift in consumer behavior highlights a decline in patient trust in healthcare providers and the growing popularity of online health resources.
The healthcare industry is plagued by confusion surrounding the terms “insurance eligibility,” “discovery,” and “verification.” These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinct processes within revenue cycle management (RCM).
Eligibility determines if a patient’s insurance covers a specific healthcare service. Discovery identifies coverage a patient might not be aware of or has not disclosed. Verification confirms the activity of a known insurance policy.
George Vradenburg, a leading figure in Alzheimer’s research, is optimistic about the future of combating the disease. He highlights several significant advancements, including:
Vradenburg’s insights offer hope for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and emphasize the importance of ongoing research and prevention efforts.