Telemedicine is becoming more widespread

In 2015, more than 15 million Americans received some kind of virtual medical care, according to the American Telemedicine Association. The trade group expects the number to jump by 30 percent in 2016.

Nearly three-quarters of large companies will offer telemedicine doctor visits as part of their health packages in 2016, an increase from 48 percent in 2015. In a nod to the large role telemedicine soon may play in health care, Johns Hopkins Medicine this summer created the first administrative position and office dedicated to the practice. Among the tasks of the new office is developing policies and guidelines around the use of telemedicine. "I think the future market for telemedicine — the potential is incredible," said Dr. Ingrid Zimmer-Galler, executive clinical director of JHM Telemedicine. "The market is exploding. Things you would think you can't possibly do from home are absolutely going to become a reality in coming years." Doctors and nurses across the state are using high-resolution cameras, smartphones and desktop computers to diagnose, treat and monitor patients.