Right now only 9 states provide reimbursement for telemedicine services, although another 30 states are considering it. Proposed federal legislation would provide national coverage; Dr. Kovarik sees passage of such a law as an essential major step forward in gaining widespread acceptance of mobile teledermatology.
Asked about billing, she replied that she is aware of one major health insurer interested in providing coverage for teledermatology, in part so they can promote it in consumer advertising as an example of their high-quality care.
"I don’t see teledermatology as part of direct fee for service in the next decade. I see it more as part of a value-based health care plan. I think patients like it, and it adds value. So I think it will be part of the new health care landscape before too long," Dr. Kovarik predicted.
She reported having no financial conflicts of interest.