The Growing Market Of Telemedicine And Big Data

Well that was fast! In our recent coverage of the Ebola virus outbreak in Dallas, Texas, we discussed the possibility of Google Inc. providing extra information to users who searched for a specific set of symptoms. Google has now confirmed that it’s testing a feature that responds to users searching for specific symptoms with more than just extra information. Some users are being presented with opportunities to video chat with doctors in response to their health queries. During the trial, Google is picking up the tab for these instant consultations.

This type of service could prove to be popular with individuals who are too busy to take time off to visit a doctor, and for those in rural locations that aren’t close to doctor offices. It could also be beneficial during a health crisis. Imagine being able to have a video chat with a CDC health agent, after searching for the symptoms of an Ebola infection from within the geographic area where one of the infected had been. Enabling possible contact interviews to be conducted this way could save time, which is one of the most valuable resources during a contagious disease outbreak.

Telehealth is shaping up to be a big industry. A recent survey of 400 hospitals found that 46% are already offering some form of telemedicine. Many of these services are covered by medical insurance, so that could be the way Google funds the program, should it go live after this trial.