Age makes a difference when it comes to knowledge and acceptance of telemedicine which is gaining attention from providers and regulators for its potential to increase access to more convenient, lower-cost healthcare.
Research reveals that a majority of patients are still skeptical of telemedicine's diagnostic accuracy but also highlights a significant age gap in understanding of this new healthcare technology. 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," said Bryce Williams, CEO and President of HealthMine "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."
Q: Would you use telemedicine if offered by your health insurance company as an alternative/in addition to traditional doctor visits?
| Age | 25-34 | 35-44 | 45-54 | 55-64 | All |
| Yes | 58% | 44% | 41% | 37% | 45% |
| No | 15% | 16% | 16% | 17% | 16% |
| Unsure | 27% | 40% | 43% | 46% | 39% |
Q: Do you think you understand when it is best to use telemedicine as an alternative/in addition to traditional doctor visits?
| Age | 25-34 | 35-44 | 45-54 | 55-64 | All |
| Yes | 52% | 46% | 34% | 38% | 43% |
| No | 18% | 12% | 20% | 16% | 16% |
| Never heard of telemedicine | 30% | 42% | 46% | 46% | 41% |
The HealthMine Health Plan Member Survey of 1,200 consumers was fielded by Survey Sampling International (SSI) on May 15-27, 2015. Data were collected via an opt-in panel. The margin of error is 4%. Survey Sampling International (SSI) has been the Worldwide Leader in Survey Sampling and Data Collection Solutions, across every mode, for 37 Years.
Intriguing article… I often find myself wondering about this developing option and think it has HUGE potential for a multitude of reasons. Cue: the MD/NP/PA mom that wants a better home/hospital/clinic balance. Or the patient that desperately needs to be seen for a “same day appt” for a condition that can easily be diagnosed via a telehealth consult. Can you imagine an environment open to both freelancing providers and patients in need of help to obtain it that day? How awesome would that be?