A future in which certain medical consultations are all carried out virtually is possible in the UK, according to Vitality.
The insurer noted that based on medical risk and patient preferences it was likely certain consultation types would be done virtually in the next few years.
Dr Anushka Patchava, deputy chief medical officer at Vitality, told LaingBuisson’s private acute healthcare conference that America was ahead of the UK in this regard.
She was responding to a question from the audience about the possibilities for fully digital consultations in the UK.
American experts claimed 100% of some consultations could be carried out remotely by 2025, but Dr Patchava (pictured second left) said while this period was too soon for the UK, it could still happen in the future.
“I think there is a potential for us to have 100% of certain consultations all virtual and that is based on risk stratification models, data fluidity work and also based on customer preferences and needs,” Dr Patchava said.
“So in certain situations… customers do want to interact digitally and they prefer that. They find it a safer environment to do so. I think that’s the critical piece.
“I think we will get there but it’s how we do it and with whom we do it.”