Freakonomics Radio 423. The Doctor Will Zoom You Now
Jun 25, 2020
Rebecca Kurth, an associate professor of clinical medicine, shares her firsthand experiences with telehealth amid the pandemic. Chad Elamoodle, a urologist and telehealth innovator, discusses its lasting impact on patient care. Economist David Cutler reveals the economic implications of this healthcare shift. They explore how telehealth transformed accessibility, the challenges faced by providers, and the potential for AI to enhance future medical visits, all while contemplating the sustainability of these new practices in the U.S. healthcare system.
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Telehealth Modalities
- Beyond video visits, telehealth includes e-visits (secure messaging), e-consults (specialist consultations), and remote monitoring.
- It's applicable to various specialties, including psychiatry, dermatology, and stroke care.
Rapid Telehealth Growth
- The adoption of telehealth for medical care increased significantly, from almost none to 10-15%, practically overnight due to the pandemic.
- This shift was primarily driven by financial incentives, not technological limitations or patient reluctance.
Financial Incentives for Telehealth
- Financial incentives were crucial for telehealth's rise.
- CMS reimbursement changes significantly impacted telehealth adoption.