Virtual Care’s Popularity Notwithstanding, Patient Preference Will Still Drive Healthcare Delivery

Contrary to the popular belief that patients view in-person visits as a burden, Farr’s neighbor, like many others, may still enjoy going to the doctor and see it as an occasion for social interaction.

The future of healthcare delivery isn’t telehealth alone, but rather a blended model, where patient preference guides the way, said Dr. Ami Bhatt, director of outpatient and telecardiology at Boston-based Massachusetts General Hospital, during the panel.

“For any given patient…there is a situation in which it is better or more convenient for them to be home,” she said.”[And] there’s a situation in which they’re going to want to come in.”

Providers need to become more agile and pivot care delivery to what is ultimately best for the patient, she added.