Healthcare professionals in Florida are making a push for expanded telemedicine access in the weeks leading up to 2015.
Organizations, including Baptist Health South Florida, the Florida Hospital Association and Associated Industries of Florida, gathered for a conference last week to discuss telehealth, according to a Tampa Bay Times article.
In talks this year, lawmakers in the Sunshine State were unable to agree on important points regarding telemedicine, such as whether out-of-state telehealth providers should be licensed in Florida, or if Florida should accept licensure from other states.
Because of those setbacks, organizations in the state are starting the push for 2015 early.
Phillis Oeters, vice president of Baptist Health South Florida, said the technology has saved his hospital $18 million.
"It's saving lives, saving money," Oeters said. "All hospitals need to have the flexibility to be innovative and have these kinds of programs. They are transforming the health care industry." Article