Telehealth Utilization Not Linked to Increase in Low-Value Care, Study Finds
In a recent study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers discovered that increased telehealth utilization in primary care clinics was not associated with a rise in low-value services. Low-value care refers to services that provide no clinical benefit to patients while driving up healthcare costs. The findings of the study could alleviate concerns among policymakers about the potential for telehealth to lead to unnecessary or wasteful services.
The Role of Telehealth in Healthcare Delivery
Telehealth has become a more prominent method of healthcare delivery, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinicians have increasingly turned to remote care to reduce the spread of the virus. However, questions remain about how to ensure the quality of virtual care, protect in-person options, and determine appropriate reimbursement rates for telehealth services.
Addressing Concerns About Wasteful Healthcare Spending
One of the concerns surrounding telehealth is the possibility of driving up wasteful healthcare spending. Previous studies have raised concerns about the potential for duplicative care following telehealth visits. Additionally, the convenience of telehealth may lead to unnecessary utilization or increased ordering of diagnostic tests.
Study Findings on Telehealth and Low-Value Care
The study analyzed data from over 577,000 Medicare beneficiaries and divided primary care practices based on their level of telehealth services in 2022. Researchers examined the rates of low-value services, such as unnecessary imaging for headaches or low back pain, among practices with varying levels of telehealth use.
Surprisingly, the study found no association between telehealth utilization and most types of low-value care. In fact, practices with high levels of telehealth visits saw a decrease in low-value cervical cancer screenings for women over 65 and wasteful thyroid testing. The researchers suggested that the need for in-person procedures, like pap smears for cervical cancer screenings, may explain the reduction in low-value services in practices with high telehealth use.
Implications of the Study
The findings of this study provide reassurance that telehealth utilization in primary care settings is not linked to an increase in low-value care. Policymakers may find this information valuable as they continue to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery. By understanding the impact of telehealth on the provision of low-value services, stakeholders can better shape policies and payment models to promote high-quality, cost-effective care.
Overall, the study highlights the potential benefits of telehealth in improving access to care and enhancing patient outcomes without contributing to unnecessary healthcare spending. As telehealth continues to play a significant role in healthcare delivery, ongoing research and evaluation will be essential to ensure its effectiveness and efficiency in meeting the needs of patients and providers.
