Teladoc Health announced the U.S. availability of Teladoc Back Care, a new, personalized, online back pain treatment program. Estimated to be the third-highest medical cost driver in the U.S. (behind diabetes and obesity) at $87 billion, back pain also is known to have low adherence to traditional therapy and treatment options. With this new addition to the Teladoc Health care continuum, patients and employers can now leverage virtual care to reduce the intensity, frustration, and impact of back pain. The digital video exercise program is based on more than 100 clinical studies of the treatment and management of low back pain. Through partnership with Telespine, members engage in an online, personalized, exercise-based treatment plan coupled with certified coach consultation. A virtual back pain pilot study conducted last year with a large employer demonstrated improved patient pain scale assessments and satisfaction levels. On average, more than 90% of members realized a 14% reduction in disability and a 49% reduction in pain after engaging in the program. While patients often experience reduced pain intensity and disability after traditional physical therapy, adherence to brick-and-mortar appointments remains challenging. Nearly 15% of patients do not return for therapy after the first physical therapy visit, with even lower adherence to treatment plans that entail multiple visits a week. For employers who are concerned with the high costs of and adherence to back pain treatments, Teladoc Back Care delivers easy access to a proven program with an overall lower healthcare spend.