Telehealth enables physicians to address a broad spectrum of diagnoses related to male infertility
Oct 19, 2020
By: ASRM
Origin: ASRM Press Release
The researchers also found that video visits are a patient-centric modality that reduces travel and financial burdens. 98% of patients from the same research cohort were first-time video-visit users, suggesting that men are amenable to using telehealth for male infertility care. There were a total of 49 unique occupations among the 56 men. 32% were blue collar workers and 68% were white collar workers. Video visits allowed patients to save a median of 80 miles and 97 minutes of travel per visit. By not having to miss a half or full day of work, patients potentially avoided a median of $102 to $205 in lost wages, respectively. Total estimated savings in wages to patients was $14,539 (half day off) to $22,206 (full day off).
“With the rapid expansion of virtual visits, it will be very important for insurers to continue to cover telehealth, as they would in-person care. Unfortunately, we’re starting to see some insurers end benefits for virtual visits, increasing financial and logistical burdens. ASRM is actively advocating for insurance companies to ensure telehealth coverage long term regardless of the type of care being received.” Said Marcelle Cedars, MD, Vice President of ASRM.