Surprising lack of disparity in use of digital care
May 8, 2025
Summary: Digital health care is applicable widely, including to populations that might have been expected to have lower take up.
Source: Wakeman, et al JAMA Network Open, April 17, 2025
Researchers published data in JAMA Network Open last month from a 2022 survey of over 5000 people who live in the most and least socially vulnerable counties to assess their likelihood of using telehealth. Many of the results are unsurprising: those who had in-person visits and those who self-reported poor health were statistically significantly more likely to receive telehealth services, while those who were uninsured were less likely to use telemedicine.
The data showed that minoritized communities (Black and Hispanic people) and those who had lower English proficiency were more likely to use telemedicine, and that internet access was not associated with the likelihood of using telehealth, perhaps because of the ubiquity of smartphones. Age, income, gender, and self-reported mental health were not statistically significantly associated with telemedicine use. Those who were non-heterosexual in less vulnerable counties reported more telemedicine use.
Implications for employers:
This study demonstrates that telemedicine is widely applicable, including to members of minoritized and more socially vulnerable communities.
Companies seeking to roll out telemedicine offerings should always consider language and cultural issues and communicate programs widely without assuming that those who are older or don’t speak English will be less likely to use these programs.
Thanks for reading. You can find previous posts in the Employer Coverage archive
Please subscribe, “like” share this newsletter with friends and colleagues. Thanks!
Tomorrow: Friday Shorts and Follow ups