HealthMine Survey conducted a survey which covered 500 insured consumers who use mobile/internet-connected health applications found that 39% still have not heard of telemedicine. Only one third of respondents say their health plan offers telehealth as an option. However, 93% of those who have used telemedicine say it has lowered their healthcare costs, according to HealthMine Survey.
Telemedicine allows patients to connect with doctors through smartphones, computers and other devices. It can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional healthcare. Remote visits tend to be faster and less expensive than most visits to the doctor's office, emergency rooms or urgent care clinics. Fifty-five percent (55%) of respondents who have access to telemedicine have used it.
Despite the potential benefits of telehealth when used appropriately, many Americans still prefer traditional, in-person provider visits. Forty-two percent (42%) of respondents who haven't used telehealth say they prefer a doctor office visit. But, more than a quarter of consumers simply don't know when it is appropriate to use telemedicine versus traditional medicine.
With education and guidance, more consumers may adopt telemedicine as a valuable channel for certain types of healthcare delivery. When asked which medical services they would consider using telehealth for (as opposed to traditional medicine), here is how respondents answered:
Bryce Williams, CEO and President of HealthMine said, "Telehealth will find its place in the health services market as did urgent care centers." He continued, "Health plan sponsors can play a significant role in educating their members about optimal options for treatment."
