Uninsured Patients Praise Embattled Telehealth Provider for Lifesaving Care

As of November 18th, 2025, the city of Jacksonville is grappling with the future of its embattled telehealth provider, Telescope Health. The company, which receives $1.5 million in funding from the city, has come under the microscope of a Duval DOGE subcommittee.

Councilmember Rory Diamond (R-District 13) has raised concerns about potential corruption and misuse of taxpayer dollars, stating that "the same names keep popping up" in relation to the contract. However, the city's Chief Health Officer, Dr. Sunil Joshi, argues that Telescope Health is a net benefit to the community, saving hospitals and the city millions by diverting uninsured patients away from emergency rooms.

One such patient, Mable Doscher, credits Telescope Health with saving her life after she suffered a heart attack in January. Uninsured at the time, Doscher says the service provided her with continuing care that she may have otherwise gone without. "It helped me out a lot cause by now I would not have any medication and, God knows, probably would have had another heart attack," she said.

Despite the praise from patients, Telescope Health faces an uncertain future. The Duval DOGE subcommittee is expected to investigate the matter further in the coming weeks, and a Special Investigatory committee with subpoena power could be convened if the company does not cooperate. Telescope Health has denied all accusations of fraud and remains committed to serving the Jacksonville community.