New athenahealth Research Finds that Telehealth Fills Care Gaps for Patients

“Additionally, previous research has shown that female clinicians tend to spend more time with patients, which could further explain higher provider adoption of telehealth among females compared to males, with female providers using telehealth as an additional tool for connecting with patients.” Twenty-four percent of respondents said they used telehealth because they felt their health concerns did not warrant an in-person visit, indicating telehealth can serve as a tool for more frequent check-ins as well as preventative care that might otherwise be unmet. The research findings highlighted strong gender differences in telehealth adoption and use, with male patients and providers both significantly less likely to utilize/offer telehealth services. “Additionally, previous research has shown that female clinicians tend to spend more time with patients, which could further explain higher provider adoption of telehealth among females compared to males, with female providers using telehealth as an additional tool for connecting with patients.” While the research showed Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to use telehealth services than their White counterparts, they were less likely to do so with a single, dedicated provider, suggesting improved access to care but not improved continuity of care.