Huan Qiu Wang·2025-07-11 12:47Core Viewpoint - The launch of Meituan's "Ask a Doctor" video consultation service enhances patient access to healthcare by allowing direct communication with top-tier hospital doctors from home, significantly increasing consultation volume [1][3]. Group 1: Service Features - The new video consultation feature allows patients to connect with doctors via video or phone, facilitating efficient communication about medical conditions without leaving home [1]. - The service includes two main components: "Instant Ask a Doctor," which offers 24/7 access to top hospital doctors with an average response time of 30 seconds, and "Expert Video Consultation," which allows patients to schedule appointments with renowned doctors from top hospitals [3]. - The service has been integrated with nearly 1,000 top-tier hospitals across various specialties, ensuring availability of expert consultations in fields such as dermatology, obstetrics, pediatrics, and respiratory medicine [3]. Group 2: User Demographics and Demand - The first week of the video consultation service saw a nearly 100% increase in consultation volume compared to the testing phase, with dermatology, gastroenterology, ENT, respiratory, and pediatrics being the top five specialties consulted [4]. - The service primarily attracts young and middle-aged users, addressing the needs of busy professionals seeking quick consultations for minor health issues, while also catering to parents and elderly individuals, with over 20% of users being caregivers [4][5]. - Online consultations are increasingly recognized as a valuable alternative for patients in remote areas, busy professionals, and those with mobility issues, providing a time-saving and efficient healthcare option [5].