Today Teladoc Health announced the U.S. launch of Teladoc Back Care – a personalized, online back pain treatment program to reduce the intensity, frustration, and impact of back pain. This new service adds to Teladoc Health’s broadening array of services, ranging from cold and flu to complex conditions like behavioral health, and even cancer.
With back pain estimated to be the third-highest medical cost driver in the U.S. at $87 billion, this service is expected to have a tremendous impact on healthcare costs in addition to improving clinical outcomes. On average more than 90% of members of a large employer pilot program realized a 14% reduction in disability and a 49% reduction in pain after engaging in the program
Back Care Program Overview
The digital video exercise program is based on more than 100 clinical studies of the treatment and management of low back pain. Through a partnership with Telespine, members engage in an online, personalized, exercise-based treatment plan coupled with certified coach consultation. A virtual back pain pilot study conducted last year with a large employer demonstrated improved patient pain scale assessments and satisfaction levels. On average, more than 90 percent of members realized a 14 percent reduction in disability and a 49 percent reduction in pain after engaging in the program.
While patients often experience reduced pain intensity and disability after traditional physical therapy, adherence to brick-and-mortar appointments remains challenging. Nearly 15 percent of patients do not return for therapy after the first physical therapy visit, with even lower adherence to treatment plans that entail multiple visits a week. For employers who are concerned with the high costs of and adherence to back pain treatments, Teladoc Back Care delivers easy access to a proven program with overall lower healthcare spending.
Back Care Program Availability
The Back Care program is accessible to members as part of the provider referral during a telemedicine visit, and members can also self-enroll through the Teladoc portal. Participants receive a personalized back care video treatment plan to be completed at their convenience over four to eight weeks that includes safety instruction, coaching, strengthening, decompression, mobility, and movement guidance.
“As we continue to expand our portfolio and add high value, complementary services for our clients and members, results show that low back pain – one of the most common musculoskeletal concerns in healthcare – can be effectively treated virtually,” explains Dan Trencher, senior vice president, Product & Corporate Strategy, Teladoc Health. “With the addition of Teladoc Back Care and the convenience of an online, personalized program, we will contribute to lower costs and a healthier future for our U.S. members.”
