SoCal Kaiser Permanente's Virtual Urgent Care Program Shows "Strong Engagement"
Nature
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
The rise of virtual urgent care (VUC) is transforming healthcare access, particularly through expanding direct-to-consumer telehealth services, which, valued at $1.47 billion in 2023, are expected to grow. The Southern California Permanente Medical Group's Get Care Now (GCN) program, launched in October 2021, offers 24/7 virtual consultations for non-life-threatening conditions, recording over 1.3 million patient interactions to date. Integrated into SCPMG's value-based healthcare model, GCN enhances traditional urgent care by providing accessible, patient-centered care without additional fees, while promoting long-term health outcomes. Data from the program shows strong patient engagement and successful digital adoption.
