As telemedicine has taken center stage during the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual care has become a powerful tool for managing our health. Telehealth services are incredibly beneficial for an individual’s access to health care. With specialties and opportunities increasing in telemedicine, Pennsylvania health care providers and individuals need to understand the benefits of telehealth. In a recent survey, we found that a large majority of respondents believe telehealth makes a positive impact, are confident in telehealth services, and are likely to continue using telehealth even after the COVID-19 pandemic. “I used telehealth for my therapist appointments. I have depression and anxiety, so it really makes me feel more comfortable doing the appointment in my home,” said Bridgette, a retiree from DuBois. “It’s easier to discuss things with her when I’m in my own room.”
Our survey showed strong support across Pennsylvania for telehealth services:
- 86% said telehealth has a somewhat positive or very positive impact on those seeking medical services.
- 69% said they are extremely confident or very confident of receiving quality care through telehealth. That number increases to 85% when including “somewhat confident.”
- 78% said they have used telehealth in the past. 58% have used only telehealth during the pandemic.
- Among telehealth users, 89% have been very or somewhat satisfied with their telehealth experience.
- Among telehealth users, 85% said they are likely or very likely to continue using telehealth after the pandemic.
Telehealth has been a true benefit to a majority of individuals during the pandemic — but some of those benefits are under threat of disappearing next spring if elected officials don’t take action to protect them. Telehealth offers strong advantages and benefits for many patients. “I am a senior citizen, and I suffer from chronic pain,” said Barbara, a respondent from State College. “Many health care appointments are conversations that can easily be done using telecommunication without losing the quality of my health care, while saving me a lot of pain from driving, waiting, and sitting on uncomfortable chairs. It also cuts down on the stress I experience before going to in-person appointments.”
What else are Pennsylvanians saying about telehealth?
“Telehealth during the pandemic has been lifesaving both for myself and family and friends. Most of us did not feel safe going in person to appointments, especially during something like a pandemic. Telehealth made it really easy to be able to see not just my primary provider but specialists across the state. “This was particularly helpful in regard to mental health treatment. Right now it is really hard to find a therapist to see in person that also specializes in my very specific concerns. Telehealth opens up the option of seeing anyone with a Pennsylvania license, and therefore I’ve been able to actually see people who specialize but live too far away to drive to. As a result, I have gotten much better care.”
“I used telehealth for my therapist appointments. I have depression and anxiety, so it really makes me feel more comfortable doing the appointment in my home. It’s easier to discuss things with her when I’m in my own room.”
“Telehealth made my therapy for depression able to be performed no matter if I was in my home or traveling. I was able to contact my PCP from home, and this ability made it more convenient and easier for me and the medical provider. On one occasion, it would have saved me about three hours of travel time and waiting to be seen to tell me everything was OK from my MRI.”
“Being able to use telehealth for my specialist doctor checkups has enabled me to receive care without the risk of contracting COVID-19. I’m immune compromised, and my doctor’s office is located at a hospital. This way she can monitor my treatment without risking my health.”
“My daughter broke both her arms one month before leaving for college 300 miles away. She had surgery. Telehealth allowed her and her parents to meet with her surgeon across the state without undue time and travel and missed classes. Her recovery has been excellent!”