Digitisation has made telemedicine an integral part of modern healthcare: current figures show that the number of telemedicine users worldwide will exceed 116 million in 2024, an increase from around 57 million in 2019.^[1] Besides, thanks to the ease of use and functionality, the number of users is expected to continue to increase in the coming years, bringing benefits to both patients and medical professionals.

Today, one of the main goals of the healthcare system is to provide patient-centred care, and telemedicine offers a viable solution capable of delivering a high-quality patient experience, regardless of location. In addition, the development and integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies for remote consultations will in the near future allow for a more accurate and timely analysis of patient data and more personalised care recommendations. 

The need for telemedicine services is also highlighted in the Public Health Guidelines 2021–2027 developed by field experts and ministries. They include a greater focus on digital solutions, for example, to improve access to health services, especially in remote areas, and to develop publicly funded remote health services. It also aims to improve the management of digital solutions in the health sector by setting up an ICT Competence Centre for the sector.[2]

Personalised care and expert support on one app

In order to facilitate and simplify access to medical services, the insurance company Compensa Vienna Insurance Group has also developed a solution for obtaining online consultations.

Seesam health insurance customers can access remote medical consultations via the MyEmerg app. It allows you to contact a healthcare professional from anywhere in the world via video or chat. The doctor can remotely assess the patient’s health, make recommendations, e-prescribe, issue referrals, open and close sick leave and provide other services to diagnose health conditions. You don’t have to pay out of pocket or apply for reimbursement – it is paid for with your Seesam Health Card. Such consultations are the best option when you do not need a more in-depth examination of your health or when it is important to repeatedly consult your doctor after an examination.

“During the pandemic, remote access to medical advice became an essential way of maintaining patients’ access to high-quality healthcare. Today, telemedicine is a crucial everyday service that is increasingly adapted to patients’ dynamic lifestyles, replacing long waiting times in queues and the time spent travelling to a healthcare facility. Ease of use, accessibility and security are the advantages driving the increasing demand for services and the continuous innovation in the field of telemedicine, and this trend is already significantly changing the traditional model of patient care,” says Anna Ozola, Head of Health Reimbursement.

For more information on remote consultations, call 8888 or email info@compensa.lv.

[1] Telemedicine – statistics and facts | Statista

[2] Public Health Guidelines 2021–2027: more accessible, better quality services and health literacy | Ministry of Health (vm.gov.lv)