Estimating Travel Reduction with Telemedicine
Author Information
Author(s): Wootton Richard, Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz, Hailey David
Primary Institution: Norwegian Centre for Integrated Care and Telemedicine
Hypothesis
What is the extent of travel reduction associated with the use of telemedicine?
Conclusion
Telemedicine can significantly reduce travel for patients, with real-time methods showing a 25% increase in avoided travel compared to store-and-forward methods.
Supporting Evidence
- 20 studies were identified where the percentage of avoided travel through telemedicine could be inferred.
- The mean percentage of avoided travel was 43% for store-and-forward studies.
- Real-time telemedicine showed a 70% avoidance of travel in some cases.
Takeaway
Using telemedicine means fewer people have to travel to see a doctor, which is good for both time and the environment.
Methodology
The study proposes a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literature on travel reduction due to telemedicine, using stepwise multiple regression to analyze data.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the reliance on non-comparative studies and the subjective nature of some data.
Limitations
Limited published information on travel savings through telemedicine applications.
Participant Demographics
The studies reviewed included a diverse range of patients, with ages from infants to elderly individuals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.014
Statistical Significance
p = 0.014
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website