Telehealth proponents expected the pandemic to net them a windfall of convincing evidence that virtual care could increase quality and cut spending. But two years after health systems went virtual almost overnight, industry watchers are still disputing a key aspect that could determine telehealth’s fate: whether the option for virtual visits means patients will see doctors more often than they would in-person.
Whether telehealth is a substitute for — or an addition to — in-person care could clarify if it drives up costs for insurers and providers. Telehealth advocates have for years sought to prove to Congress that it’s a substitute, and that expanding Medicare coverage for virtual care wouldn’t significantly increase federal spending.
About the Author Reprints
Create a display name to comment
This name will appear with your comment
