The Uberization of Health Care

The Uberization of Health Care

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As a modern locum tenens physician, it’s hard to deny the role of technology in today’s health care system. Developers are always creating new devices and applications which improve the way that doctors treat their patients. This technology has also enhanced communication within the industry. But not every solution is perfect, and this is definitely the case when it comes to the uberization of health care.

Uberization refers to the way in which mobile technology has improved modern health care. Just as the Uber app transformed the private transportation industry, the uberization of health care continues to change the way that the medical industry operates. In order to understand this issue, we must explore its effects on the health care industry as a whole.

What is the Uberization of Health Care?

Patients often run into problems while seeking medical attention. This is especially true for patients with mild medical issues. Modern technology can be used to help bridge the gap between these patients and their physicians. Technology designed to virtually diagnose patients comes in the form of telemedicine, health monitoring electronics, and startups like HealthTap.

Companies such as Lemonaid Health have streamlined this process by providing patients with quick links for various conditions and treatments. This service guarantees a two-hour response rate and same-day online doctor visits for $25. With companies like these, it’s easy to see why the uberization of health care is gaining so much traction. Patients in participating states can also download Lemonaid Health’s app for direct access to health care professionals through their smartphones.

Telemedicine is also a great option for locum tenens. Traveling physicians have demanding schedules, but telemedicine allows them to work additional hours without being present at a health care facility. While there are still many job opportunities available for locum doctors, the uberization of health care gives you the option to make some extra money on the side.

uberization of healthcare

A Disruptive Healthcare Model

On-demand healthcare companies have grown significantly in the past few years as millions of people have begun to use their services. Despite this growth, many people are concerned that the new “app economy” cannot provide a sustainable business model for doctors and insurers. The uberization of health care caters to younger and healthier people with straightforward medical issues. Covering patients with more advanced medical problems has still proven to be difficult for these new systems. A lot of people also do not think that these services encourage doctors to provide better care to their patients.

The Breakdown

The uberization of health care may have many benefits, but it is has a lot of issues too. Consumers should not be settling for mediocre care, even if it means more convenience. One major benefit of this system is how it expands the reach of health care to more people. More patients can be connected with health care professionals this way. This system is also especially helpful for patients in rural areas or low-income communities who do not have access to basic care.

While it is much cheaper for patients to consult with doctors virtually, they can often lose these savings once they make office visits. To make matters worse, nine out of 10 virtual visits were for health conditions that resolved themselves.

With so many pros and cons, this is definitely a complex topic. We’ll just have to wait and see if the uberization of health care is truly a solution for patients and doctors everywhere.


What are your thoughts on the uberization of health care? Do you think there are benefits when it comes to using this system? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Author: Locum Jobs Online

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