HIMSS Analytics: Less than half of healthcare orgs use telemedicine solutions

Approximately 46 percent of healthcare organizations use up to four telemedicine solutions, according to a survey from HIMSS Analytics.

The 2014 U.S. Telemedicine Study—which is the first of HIMSS Analytics’ new series, Essentials Briefs—involved an online survey of 406 professionals, including C-suite, IT staffers, clinicians and department heads. It examined integration of telemedicine products and services with EHRs, primary reasons for investment and top product attributes considered by organizations. 

In addition to its finding that less than half of organizations utilize telemedicine, the study reported that two-way video/webcam is the most widely used telemedicine solution (57.8 percent) and most widely considered (67.1 percent) for those making a telemedicine investment.

“Organizations continue to strive toward a value-based rather than volume-based care model, and many telemedicine technologies can aid in that transition,” said HIMSS Analytics Research Director, Brendan FitzGerald, in a news release. “However, the study found that organizational needs will vary based upon provider type while the numerous technologies under the telemedicine umbrella will add to the complexity of the market. Regardless of these challenges, organizations will continue to look for and utilize technology to fill gaps and enhance initiatives in patient care.”