The two largest problems with health care are ever-increasing costs and timely access. Seattle is now a hotbed of technology innovation, so it is no surprise that a tech-oriented startup company in Seattle is offering one solution to cost and access.  (here)

On a variation of telemedicine, the company, 98point6, offers an app that allows adults to consult with doctors on a 24/7 basis via smart phones and other devices. The company currently operates in ten states and plans to expand into all 50 states by the end of the year.

The initial cost for the patient is $20 for the first year, increasing to $120 per year thereafter.

The app takes the place of an actual in-office visit, saving both time and money for the patient who needs primary care. This is a variation of direct-primary-care, which is an expanding alternative to traditional doctor visits for thousands of patients. Innovative companies such as 98point6 become even more important with the looming doctor shortage in the U.S. (here)

As in other areas of life, the free market can actually work in health care as long as government doesn’t over regulate and stifle creative solutions.