UnitedHealthcare released a new mobile application that allows plan members to schedule and conduct telehealth visits with a physician directly from the app.
UnitedHealthcare is the health insurance arm of UnitedHealth Group. The app is part of UnitedHealth Group's more than $3 billion annual investment in data, technology and innovation, said Anne Docimo, MD, CMO at UnitedHealthcare, according to a news release emailed to Becker's.
"Digital health resources are fundamentally changing how people navigate the health system, making it possible to access care from anywhere at any time and helping remove barriers to care," Dr. Docimo said.
Individuals enrolled in most UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored plans are covered for virtual physician appointments. Virtual visits typically last about 20 minutes, and physicians can diagnose various nonemergency medical conditions, including allergies, flu, colds and pinkeye. Physicians can also prescribe medications and send prescriptions to the patient's local pharmacy for pickup, if necessary.
The new app also allows members to view their health plan ID card on their smartphone, review and manage prescription medications and view information regarding the status of deductible and out-of-pocket spending, among other functions.