A repository of Virtual-first Primary Care programs and pilots, including a market overview, common success factors and challenges, and individual case profiles.
Key Takeaways:
Virtual-first primary care is distinct from, and goes beyond, telemedicine in primary care. Most LHS virtual-first models have connections between visits, including same-day messaging, connectivity with wearables, and virtual therapy options.
LHS with full-service virtual-first primary care clinics built their programs in-house for the most part. Specific model components, such as chronic disease management or behavioral health, may be offered through partnerships.
Successful virtual-first primary care programs require commercial payers and/or an LHS-owned plan. LHS-led virtual-first clinics have a payer on board, are able to connect an LHS-owned plan, and/or have direct-to-consumer relationships.
Most programs have seen high satisfaction from providers. While only a subset of providers want to do virtual-only care, those that do typically are seeking better work-life balance, are comfortable with technology, and had a good experience with telehealth early on during the pandemic. 5. “Virtual-only” does not market well with patients; they prefer “virtual-first” care. Patients find it reassuring to be able to access their physicians and address in-person needs through satellite locations.