Tech companies say more virtual care can improve health. Not everyone is convinced

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Proponents argue virtual care has the potential to reduce costs and improve health for patients by providing more services in-house, such as basic mental health care. But some clinicians worry about what gets lost in telehealth sessions:

As recently as 40 years ago, Americans turned to their primary care clinicians to treat most of their ailments — from checking sore throats to delivering babies.

"We're able to provide that depression care without needing to refer out," says Dr. Nisha Basu, medical director at Firefly Health, a Watertown-based health care startup. "That is better for the patient. That's better for their care, better for access, literally better for everyone." The one exam room at Firefly has been used only a handful of times in the last 18 months, and the company says its providers no longer use it.

Dr. Basu says patients' needs are changing. More people want to ask questions about their diets or over-the-counter medications. More patients want mental health care as part of their routine care. And they want to connect with the doctor's office as easily and quickly as they communicate with friends and colleagues, such as via text messages.

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Personally my internet service is very low end. Perhaps better prices for retired Seniors would be appropriate.

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