Barriers To Telemedicine: Factors Influencing The Adoption Of Telemedicine

Carleton T. Brown, Prairie View A&M University

Abstract

Telemedicine is a rapidly evolving health treatment capability that offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative to conventional medical care. Providing access to alternative medical treatment may mitigate the population’s stress on the medical infrastructure in the upcoming decades. This study investigated the factors influencing patient adoption of telemedicine, including patient experiences and economic considerations. A quantitative survey explored patient population’s intention to utilize telemedicine, focusing on factors influencing the patients’ decision-making processes. Analyzing the survey results, the researcher focused on five main variables: exposure to telemedicine, age, loss of income, trust in doctors, and time lost. The research findings offer valuable insights into the potential consumption of telemedicine by the population, benefiting stakeholders in the healthcare industry, lawmakers, social workers, and community activists.

Keywords: telemedicine, healthcare/health disparities, cost-effective, opportunity cost, trust in doctors, age