Telehealth: Short-Term Fad or Key to Improving Access to Affordable Healthcare?

Recent McKinsey reports reveal that telehealth use has stabilized at levels 38 times higher than before the pandemic. And consumers want more. Nearly half of consumers say they would continue using telehealth in the future – up from 11% just two years ago – and as many as 60% have expressed interest in even more virtual health options, such as a “digital front door” and lower-cost virtual-first health plans. Plus, several studies show that telehealth is not only effective in improving patient outcomes but increasing practice revenue as well. 

So, what’s the problem, exactly? Equitable reimbursements. More than half of providers said they would not continue offering virtual care if it were reimbursed at a 15% lower rate than in-person visits.