How does an E --visit differ from provider--to--patient e--mails?

An E--visit is secure; E--mail is not.

The E--visit gathers symptom and HPI information, thus creating a documented medical exam. E -- mail is free text.

When it is integrated with the EHR, the E--visit becomes part of the patient's chart, just like any other visit. It would be difficult for a provider to save an e --mail exchange as part of a patient's EHR record.

E--visits are reimbursed as legitimate E&M visits; e--mail exchanges are not.

E--mail is directed at a particular individual and therefore is not likely to be accessible by another provider; E--visits can be directed to the doctor on call, thus allowing practicing

partners to share being on call.