Doctors encouraged to use e-mail with patients

(CNN) -- Your family physician might soon be as close as your computer keyboard.

	VIDEO
Correspondent Mason Essif reports on a study in California that pays physicians to use e-mail in patient care (April 30) Play video (QuickTime, Real or Windows Media)

An Internet company based in northern California has developed a secure system that allows patients to communicate with their doctor safely by using e-mail. However, doctors are not rushing to take advantage of the technology, so one insurance company is offering a reward -- $20 for every e-mail consult.

Blue Shield of California hopes the pilot project, which involves 200 physicians, will convince them that electronic mail will help reduce their daily workload.

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Blue Cross of California

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