Telemedicine got an additional boost under the $8.3 billion emergency funding measure from Congress, which loosened restrictions on its use to treat people covered under the federal Medicare program. By using their phone or computer, patients will be able to get guidance about whether they need to be seen or tested instead of showing up unannounced at the emergency room or doctor’s office. Taken to an isolation room, he was examined by Dr. Paul Casey, an emergency room physician, and a nurse, both in protective gear. “When the news of coronavirus broke last month, we saw the opportunity,” Dr. Casey said. Health systems are racing to adapt and even develop virtual services that can serve as their front line for patients.

Source: New York Times March 11, 2020 09:00 UTC