Telehealth Widely Used by Allergy, Immunology Providers

A survey conducted by the American Medical Association (AMA) shows that telehealth is popular among allergy and immunology providers, most of whom prefer live audio-visual modalities for visits.

The survey polled 2,232 providers, 136 of whom specialized in allergy and immunology. The survey was conducted in 2021.

Researchers found that 92 percent of allergists and immunologists used telehealth. A vast majority (97 percent) used audio-visual platforms, while 59 percent used audio-only, and 16 percent used asynchronous telehealth modalities.

Researchers surmised that those who did not use more advanced telehealth platforms faced issues relating to access to technology and digital literacy.

Respondents stated that about 20 percent of all visits took place through telehealth, and most virtual care participants included established patients. Specifically, 68 percent of providers indicated that over 75 percent of telehealth visits included patients with previous visits.

Allergy and immunology providers used telehealth for various types of care. For example, 83 percent used it for treatment and therapy, 78 percent used telehealth for screening, 76 percent conducted a virtual visit for follow-up care, 58 percent used it for continuous monitoring, and 42 percent used it for intake.

Several different technology platforms were leveraged in these telehealth visits. Doxy.me (38 percent), audio-only (33 percent), Doximity Video (32 percent), Zoom (25 percent), EHR telehealth module (20 percent), and FaceTime (13 percent) were the top six most used platforms.

Overall, patient satisfaction appeared to increase following the implementation of telehealth. Half of the providers indicated that patient satisfaction rose after implementing telehealth, and 70 percent stated that patients gained more comprehensive access to care.

But several barriers prevent providers from delivering and patients from receiving telehealth. Survey results implied that an absence of insurance and uncertain payer reimbursement are often barriers, along with limited awareness of telehealth implementation practices.

Previous studies and surveys indicated that providers trust telehealth and believe it is a safe and effective way to deliver patient care. However, there is also evidence showing that telehealth may increase no-show rates and the prevalence of burnout.

For example, a study from November 2021 revealed that 60 percent of providers said telehealth improved adherence to medication and made discussions about cost better. However, the study also showed that telehealth might lead to increased no-show rates, with 45 percent of providers stating that they were higher compared to in-person absences.

Another study published in March showed that providers were frustrated due to high patient expectations surrounding telehealth. Further, about 30 percent of survey respondents claimed that telehealth increased their feelings of burnout.