Medscape November 20, 2025
Beth Cavanaugh, 79, was starting a new medication when she ran into a modern hurdle: Her doctor’s office required all follow-up questions, even those about side effects of the drug, to go through the patient portal.
Cavanaugh said she did not know how to set up or use the system.
“I tried to explain that, but the receptionist said that was the only way to contact the doctor. I felt lost,” said Cavanaugh, a retired psychotherapist near Albany, New York.
Cavanaugh is far from alone. Many older people balk at the idea of communicating with their physicians over the internet. They may have limited digital skills, have physical challenges, or simply prefer human connection.
As medicine leans harder on electronic...
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