posted by Alicia Caramenico
on July 30, 2019
Telehealth continues to grow rapidly in both availability and popularity. The use of telehealth grew 624% from 2014 to 2018, according to a new study from FAIR Health.
Provider and patient communication via telehealth (not in hospitals) saw the greatest increase: nearly 1,400%. Provider-to-patient-based telehealth was greater in urban than rural areas from 2014 to 2018.
FAIR Health looked at over 29 billion private health care claim records:
Health insurance providers know timely access to appropriate care is important, and many offer telehealth benefits. Consumer groups, providers, employers, and health insurance providers all see the expanded use of telehealth as a convenient way to improve access to care and reduce costs.
From addressing mental health issues, to reducing opioid misuse and abuse to supporting seniors and others with mobility or transportation issues, telehealth is increasingly a viable, affordable care delivery model.