Interview: Bettina Gammelgaard on NFGtelecare
ITIJ spoke to Bettina Gammelgaard, Director of Operations at New Frontier Group, about the launch of the company’s new telehealth service – NFGtelecare
What are the advantages of using Telecare?
Telehealth is the fastest growing treatment modality in the US. Time and time again, it has proven to be both time and cost effective. During the current Covid-19 pandemic, this is a crucial service for people to be able to receive medical consultation from a remote location and avoid the risks of a crowded medical facility. I believe this will be the treatment method of the future and moving forward it will be key for people to be able to receive treatment in a safe environment and in a time and cost-efficient manner.
Is there a significant price difference compared to going to an Urgent Care Clinic or ER?
Yes, absolutely. Significant savings! Our program is very reasonably priced and there are cost savings when compared to visiting an Urgent Care Clinic or the Emergency Room (ER). In our experience, this is a truly interesting and much wanted solution for both patients and insurers.
This is a crucial service for people to be able to receive medical consultation from a remote location and avoid the risks of a crowded medical facility
Is this program available all over the US?
The service is available in the entire US and is available 24/7/365. The program operates with US board-certified doctors. In early March, the US Government made changes to telehealth laws and, due to the current Covid-19 situation, the legislation now allows cross-jurisdiction treatment for patients.
With Telecare, how fast can you get a hold of a doctor, and what kind of doctors are available?
Once the patient information is entered on the New Frontier Group portal, you will receive a call very shortly thereafter, literally within minutes. I have personally accessed the service and I am impressed with the turnaround time and the efficiency. All the physicians are US board-certified, some with various medical specialties. During this pandemic, the clinical team has been specifically trained on how to manage patients seeking information and physician care on Covid-19.
Will the doctor be able to prescribe medicine or lab work if needed?
Yes, the physician will facilitate treatment and e-prescribe medicine or laboratory (lab) work, when needed. At New Frontier Group, we have our own pharmacy program, Onyx™ Rx, that is available when medications are prescribed. We aim to provide the client with concierge treatment, knowing they are facing a stressful and uncomfortable situation.
Do you see Telecare being beneficial beyond this current pandemic?
A world without telecare is quickly becoming a world of the past
Absolutely! It is impossible to ignore the patient demand and clinical acceptance. A world without telecare is quickly becoming a world of the past. This pandemic has shown all of us that telehealth is effective and here to stay. Ease of access will undoubtedly lead to different doctor/ patient engagement; however, the benefits are too great, and the patients now expect it.
How do you think the future will look for Telecare 3-5 years from now?
I believe this will be the treatment of the future both for patients, insurance companies, employers and everyone seeking fast, effective and cost-efficient medical consultations.
Statistics show that high-speed internet and affordable smartphones have helped revolutionize the healthcare system in the 21st century, with the valuation of the telemedicine market on track to surpass $130 billion by 2025.
At New Frontier Group, this is a must have in our comprehensive suite of services. It is all about finding ways to optimize treatment methods for the patients at an extremely cost-effective advantage for our clients.