Survey: Boomers skeptical of telemedicine

DALLAS — A HealthMine survey of 1,200 consumers found that 41% have never heard of telemedicine —even as telemedicine attracts growing attention from providers and regulators for its potential to increase access to more convenient, lower-cost healthcare. HealthMine’s findings, taken with other research revealing that a majority of patients are still skeptical of telemedicine's diagnostic accuracy, highlights a significant gap in understanding of this growing healthcare trend.

 

The gaps in understanding are especially divided between different generations, with age making a difference when it comes to knowledge and acceptance of telemedicine. While 58% of 25- to 34-year-olds said they would use telemedicine, only 37% of consumers age 55-64 said they would do so. What's more, 52% of 25- to 34-year-olds believe they understand when it is best to use telemedicine, as compared to 34% of 45 to 54-year-olds.

 

“Telemedicine has the potential to deliver convenient and affordable basic healthcare to people of all ages,” Bryce Williams, CEO and president HealthMine, said. “Wellness programs can be the place where consumers are educated on the best way to access healthcare services, whether it be through a doctor's office, emergency room, urgent care center, or telemedicine visit. Plus, telehealth is evolving to more than telephone visits.  Soon, your smartphone will be a stethoscope and more.”