Survey: 41 Percent of Consumers Aren’t Aware of Telemedicine

A recent survey from the Dallas-based consumer health engagement company HealthMineof 1,200 consumers found that 41 percent have never heard of telemedicine.

The survey found that age makes a difference when it comes to knowledge and acceptance of telemedicine. While 58 percent of 25- to 34-year-olds said they would use telemedicine, only 37 percent of consumers age 55-64 said they would do so. What's more, 52 percent of 25- to 34-year-olds believe they understand when it is best to use telemedicine, as compared to 34 percent of 45 to 54-year-olds.

“Telemedicine has the potential to deliver convenient and affordable basic healthcare to people of all ages,” Bryce Williams, CEO and President of HealthMine said in a statement. He continued, "Wellness programs can be the place where consumers are educated on the best way to access healthcare services, whether it be through a doctor's office, emergency room, urgent care center, or telemedicine visit.  Plus, telehealth is evolving to more than telephone visits.  Soon, your smartphone will be a stethoscope and more."

Another recent survey from Nashville, Tenn.-based TechnologyAdvice Research also found that patients remain dubious about this remote option and the quality of diagnosis made during virtual appointments. According to that survey, which included more than 500 U.S. adults over age 18, nearly 65 percent of respondents said they would be somewhat or very unlikely to choose a virtual appointment.