Group of Romanian doctors launch first online 'hospital' in Europe

A group of Romanian doctors, with the support of specialists from the UK, have launched in Romania the first online hospital in Europe, SpitalOnline.ro. This platform for live, paid doctor-patient chats was launched after an investment of some EUR 30,000. The project represents a fast alternative to the traditional medicine consultations, through which patients will benefit from healthcare services non-stop, initially supported by 150 doctors. The patients have access to 30 specialties. The doctors from SpitalOnline.ro offer support and advice for minor emergencies, analysis interpretations, presumptive diagnosis and medical treatment. In time, the project’s founders plan to build a national network of doctors and to expand international partnerships to Europe, and Central and South America. In terms of revenues, they target EUR 180,000 in the first year of activity. A consultation costs RON 85 (under EUR 20), while a subscription is RON 190 (some EUR 43) per year. For a patient to get in touch with the doctor, he first has to create an account on the platform, choose the specialty and consult the list of doctors. Through a specific icon, the patient can see which of the doctors are online. Before getting in touch with the doctor, the patient has to pay the consultation online. Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com