Becker's Healthcare July 2, 2018
For years, telemedicine was lauded as the “next big thing” in healthcare. However, the technology still hasn’t become mainstream — in fact, the majority of patients have never used telemedicine, according to a column by CNBC reporter Christina Farr.
Here are four possible reasons telemedicine has been a “bust” so far, according to Ms. Farr:
1. Lack of awareness. Many patients in the U.S. aren’t aware of available telemedicine options. Ian Tong, MD, CMO of at Doctor On Demand, told Ms. Farr he believes part of the issue is the term “telemedicine” itself, which patients may not find self-evident. Instead, he frequently uses the term “video visits.”
2. Questions about cost. Many patients are deterred from using telemedicine...