Add another study to the growing pile of research which shows the benefits of telehealth in reducing hospitalizations.
 
Researchers with the Commonwealth Fund found a 20% reduction in hospitalizations for diabetes patients and a 30% reduction for those with hypertension. They also discovered that patients receiving telemonitoring services were significantly more likely to be satisfied with their care.
 
The study based its results on an examination of patients participating in major telehealth programs, such as those run by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Partners Healthcare in Boston.
 
The VA last year eliminated copays for in-home telehealth services. No word yet on when Medicare plans to include telehealth services as a covered benefit for home health care.