Humana announces virtual primary-care plan

SHELBY LIVINGSTON  April 24, 2019 04:41 PM

Humana and telehealth company Doctor on Demand will launch a new health plan design allowing employers and employees to receive primary care predominantly through virtual visits.

The plan, called On Hand, allows Humana members to avoid the doctor's office and access primary-care services virtually from one Doctor on Demand physician, with access to urgent care, preventive care and behavioral health services.

When needed, patients would receive referrals to specialists in Humana's network for in-person doctor visits.

"Through virtual care delivery, On Hand gives employers the opportunity to affordably offer healthcare benefits to employees without sacrificing comprehensive, quality care," Chris Hunter, president of Humana's group and military segment, said in the announcement.

A Humana spokesman said the plan's average monthly premiums would be nearly half those of the company's most popular purchased plan, though he didn't provide specifics. Members would have no copayments for virtual care visits and a $5 copayment for common lab tests and prescriptions. They would also receive a medical device kit with a digital blood pressure cuff, thermometer and log. The spokesman said plan members would still be able to use their own primary care physician if they would like.

Humana will pilot the plan to small businesses in Florida and Texas as a self-funded product starting in June, the spokesman said. It is not available to members enrolled in Medicare Advantage, which is Humana's largest line of business.

Humana has been investing in home healthcare to keep patients away from costlier settings. The insurer last year acquired stakes in home healthcare company Kindred Healthcare and hospice operator Curo Health Services.

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