Doctor Care Anywhere expands services

UK-based telehealth company, Doctor Care Anywhere Group (ASX: DOC) captured the market’s imagination yesterday after announcing the expansion of the group’s operating model from single-choice virtual GP consultations to various options based on a patient’s clinical needs.

The stock was up by as much as 10.8% on the strength of yesterday’s news, and is 1.08% higher in early morning trading to $0.47.

Under the group’s new operating model, patients will be able to see a GP in 15 or 20-minute slots, complete an online questionnaire, and receive prescriptions without the need for a video or phone consultations.

The new operating model also allows patients to have 20-minute consultations with an advanced nurse practitioners licensed to make assessment decisions, diagnostics, and treatment of patients and to prescribe medication.

Doctor Care expects yesterday’s announcements to better meet the challenge of clinical workforce shortages and ever-increasing healthcare demand.

The group has also entered into a variation of its master service agreement with its strategic partner, UK-based AXA PPP Healthcare Group.

Variations to the agreement are expected to contribute to Doctor Care Anywhere’s improved margins and profitability, with these benefits commencing in the fourth quarter of 2021.