Google Helpouts Connect Patients To You Instantly
By Katie Wike, contributing writer
The new Google app pairs the chat feature of Hangouts with other Google services to provide expert advice in an instant
Instantaneous telemedicine is here, in the form of Google Helpouts, a “service (that) marries the video chat features of Hangouts with the payment processing of Google Wallet, the identity management of Google+, and a slew of other Google service features. The end result is a gorgeous Frankenstein monster that lets you find expert help instantly via video,” according to VentureBeat.
According to MedCity News, “While Helpouts can be used for anything from getting a lawn care consultation to rock guitar lessons, the implications for telemedicine and healthcare are probably most significant. Prices can range from per minute to per session and are set by providers. Google takes a 20 percent cut via Google Wallet and voila. Customers are asked to write a review, moving one step closer to the future of healthcare, more toward consumers selecting doctors like they select restaurants – which surgeon has the most stars?”
HealthIT Security notes Google maintains they are a HIPAA compliant and secure product for healthcare professionals. “Ensuring that our users’ data is safe, secure, and always available to them is one of our top priorities. For providers who are subject to the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Helpouts can also support HIPAA compliance.”
Here’s an example of a physician offering his services on the Helpout board:
“I am here for patients and healthcare providers. If you are a patient, I can help you work with your primary care team. We can discuss medical conditions, medication use, and communication tips. I do not want to replace your primary care provider’s advice — that relationship is important. This is not a professional consult. I will not order any tests or write any prescriptions for you.”
According to HealthIT Security, “The physician makes it clear that he is not assuming responsibility as a patient’s provider, but merely offering general medical advice and best approaches.”
CNN writes of Helpouts, “The category with the most intriguing potential is health services. People can have a counseling session, consult with a dietitian or get advice from a registered lactation support consultant over the video chats” and “Google is checking credentials for any providers in the medical field.” CNN also notes, “There is no framework for getting a Helpout session covered by insurance, but Google thinks the category has potential to become a regular part of modern health care.
“Telemedicine is not a new idea. Companies already offer therapy sessions and one-on-one physician appointments over video. It's great for people who are far from proper medical facilities or who are homebound because of illness.”
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