MedImpact to provide a suite of free, online flu self-assessment tools

MedImpact has collaborated with the American Medical Association (AMA) and other health care organizations to provide a suite of free, online flu self-assessment tools to MedImpact clients and to the 32 million individual members they serve. Just in time for flu season, these health-assessment tools, authored by the AMA, and based upon CDC guidance and the best available scientific evidence, are being made available — at no cost — to promote public health and to enable connected care among health care professionals, patients and families. To access the easy-to-use application, go to: www.medimpact.com and take the H1N1/Swine Flu Session.

On June 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a global pandemic of H1N1 was underway. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) anticipates that there will be more cases in the U.S. through the fall and winter. Based on projections from the CDC, it is anticipated that up to forty percent of the American population could be infected over the next two years.

The suite of online flu evaluation tools aims to help patients detect and assess flu symptoms, including the novel influenza H1N1 or “swine flu” strain, and determine an appropriate course of action. This can ensure that individuals seek care at the most appropriate and cost effective locations, thereby reducing costs associated with unnecessary visits to emergency health care facilities. MedImpact is committed to delivering clinical care coordination tools that reduce redundant testing, that foster better physician, pharmacist, family and patient communications and that empower individuals to manage their wellness and reduce their health care expenditures.

“We are providing immediate access to this important and innovative suite of e-health tools to promote public health during the flu pandemic and to provide added value to our clients who are seeking effective and easy-to-access methods to keep their employees and beneficiaries healthy this year,” said Dale Brown, senior vice president for MedImpact. “With the H1N1 outbreak, it is imperative for individuals to have convenient access to health care tools that empower healthy decision making.”

MedImpact’s collaboration with the AMA enables individuals to receive automated feedback and guidance from health experts, assess and monitor current health conditions, track changes in symptoms and receive recommendations for return to work or school. Powered by HealthyCircles, the flu applications were designed by the AMA and other health care organizations. While these tools are useful for those who aren’t sure whether they have the flu, it does not take the place of a visit to the doctor’s office if symptoms are severe.