Pioneered in 1961, Telemedicine is providing services using technology that allows for both hearing and seeing each other. The patient is at one site in a private room, and communicates with the psychiatrist or therapist who is in a private room at a different site. It is provided over secure video-conferencing equipment that meets HIPAA requirements. Telemedicine dramatically reduces transportation, weather, and distance issues for the professional and patient. It is a confidential alternative to in-person care that is cost-effective and time-efficient. Most insurance companies reimburse for care provided via telemedicine.