MDLive is a broader virtual care platform with massive Cigna distribution for episodic virtual visits. Cadence is better specifically for chronic condition management through continuous remote patient monitoring. They serve different purposes and work best as complementary solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Cadence and MDLive serve different virtual care modalities: monitoring vs visits
- MDLive has massive distribution through Cigna but handles episodic visits, not continuous monitoring
- Cadence is purpose-built for chronic conditions with connected device integration
- A comprehensive strategy could include MDLive for visits and Cadence for chronic RPM
- They are complementary tools rather than competitive alternatives
MDLive (Cigna/Evernorth) wins
MDLive provides broader virtual care backed by Cigna's massive distribution
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Cadence | MDLive (Cigna/Evernorth) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care Model | Continuous remote patient monitoring | Episodic virtual visits | Tie |
| Clinical Focus | Chronic condition management | Multi-specialty virtual visits | MDLive (Cigna/Evernorth) |
| Distribution | Enterprise direct sales | Built into Cigna health plans | MDLive (Cigna/Evernorth) |
| Innovation | Modern RPM tech stack (founded 2020) | Established telehealth platform | Cadence |
| Chronic Care Depth | Purpose-built for chronic conditions | Handles chronic concerns via virtual visits | Cadence |
Cadence
Best for: Health systems needing dedicated chronic condition remote monitoring
Strengths
- +Purpose-built chronic condition RPM
- +Connected device integration for continuous monitoring
- +Modern tech stack
- +Growing RPM market
Limitations
- -Newer company with limited track record
- -No episodic visit capabilities
MDLive (Cigna/Evernorth)
Best for: Cigna members needing convenient multi-specialty virtual visits
Strengths
- +Massive Cigna distribution network
- +Multi-specialty virtual visits
- +Established since 2009
- +Strong psychiatry and dermatology
Limitations
- -Episodic visits, not continuous monitoring
- -Cigna ownership limits independence
Detailed Analysis
Chronic CareCadence
Cadence provides continuous monitoring with connected devices for chronic conditions. MDLive handles chronic concerns through episodic visits. For ongoing chronic care management, Cadence is far more effective.
Broad Virtual CareMDLive (Cigna/Evernorth)
MDLive offers virtual visits across multiple specialties for any condition. Cadence only handles chronic monitoring. For general virtual care needs, MDLive is more comprehensive.
Scale and ReachMDLive (Cigna/Evernorth)
MDLive reaches tens of millions through Cigna. Cadence is building its enterprise customer base. For immediate patient reach, MDLive has an enormous advantage.
Bottom Line
Choose Cadence for dedicated chronic condition remote patient monitoring programs. Choose MDLive (or its Cigna/Evernorth integration) for multi-specialty virtual visits. Ideally, deploy both for a comprehensive strategy covering both episodic and continuous virtual care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can MDLive monitor chronic conditions like Cadence?
MDLive handles chronic concerns through virtual visits but doesn't provide continuous RPM with connected devices. For ongoing chronic monitoring, Cadence is purpose-built.
Can Cadence handle virtual visits?
Cadence focuses on remote monitoring, not general virtual visits. For episodic care across specialties, platforms like MDLive or Teladoc are more appropriate.
Which is better for diabetes management?
Cadence's continuous RPM with connected devices is better for ongoing diabetes management. MDLive can handle diabetes consultations but not daily monitoring.
Do they integrate together?
Not directly as standard, but a health system could deploy both. Cadence for RPM and MDLive (via Evernorth) for virtual visits, creating a comprehensive virtual care strategy.