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Healthgrades for ProfessionalsTelemedicine Adoption Ranked by Medical Specialty

A Comprehensive Analysis of Telemedicine Adoption Across Medical Specialties

As the healthcare system adapts to the post-pandemic world, telemedicine has emerged as a significant player, accounting for 10% of all outpatient visits. This article provides an in-depth look at the adoption of telemedicine across various medical specialties, revealing intriguing trends and perspectives.

Perspectives
The Doximity report revealed that 40% of physicians are using telemedicine daily, and another 44% are using it weekly. In a separate survey by Medical Economics, half of physicians report conducting the same or more telehealth visits in 2022 vs 2021.

Key Points

  • Behavioral health leads telemedicine adoption with 57% of all visits.
  • Primary care conducts 10% of its visits through telehealth.
  • Telemedicine currently represents just less than 6% of visits for other medical specialties.
  • Telemedicine adoption is strongest among younger patients (18-44) and lowest among those over 65.
  • Utilization is stronger on both the East and West coasts and in larger cities.
  • Medical specialties that treat conditions with chronic illnesses rank towards the top: Endocrinology, Urology, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Neurology, Otolaryngology/ENT, Nephrology, Cardiology, Dermatology, Pulmonology, Internal Medicine, Allergy & Immunology, Family Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, Psychiatry.

HCN Medical Memo
Telemedicine is not just a temporary solution but a transformative force in healthcare. As healthcare professionals, understanding this shift and adapting to it can enhance patient care and improve work-life balance. The increased autonomy over schedule management and productivity are added benefits that come with this change.


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