Attitudes and Barriers to Telemedicine Among Adults
Date
2023-08-15
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MAPC, The University of Tampa
Abstract
Telemedicine involves the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, and while it has been growing in popularity, there are still barriers to its adoption. Previous research indicates that age, education level, computer literacy, and bandwidth availability can act as significant barriers to its adoption. Patients with higher education levels and residing in rural areas tended to use telemedicine more readily, while certain age groups, especially older individuals, exhibit varied attitudes towards its efficacy compared to in-person visits (Scott Kruse et al., 2018; Tipre et al., 2022; Eikelboom & Atlas, 2005; Waselewski et al., 2022). Therefore, we aim to identify what the attitudes and barriers are to telemedicine among 5 different age groups. An anonymous online Qualtrics survey was used to collect data from adults 18 years and older between May 31, 2023, and July 15, 2023, from 206 respondents. Results found that younger (18-25) and older (70+) adults were more comfortable with telemedicine, while middle aged participants (36-50) experienced more discomfort with technology to communicate with doctors. Participants considered telemedicine suitable for prescriptions and lab results but less suitable for annual physicals and dermatological conditions. Advantages included time efficiency, convenience, and increased access to providers, while disadvantages included technological difficulties, limited interaction, and lack of physical examination. Those needing assistance setting up appointments showed lower confidence in using video chat, but overall, telemedicine was perceived positively across age groups.
Description
Capstone project for completion of the Masters of Arts in Professional Communication (MAPC)
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Other
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Keywords
Telemedicine, Barriers, Attitudes