Nearly Four in Five Americans Who Have Used Virtual Primary Care Say It Helped Them Take Charge of Their Health

As digital health technology continues to advance and the healthcare industry evolves, many Americans want the ability to utilize more digital methods when it comes to managing their health, according to a study recently released by Elevance Health – formerly Anthem, Inc. For people who have used virtual primary care, the vast majority of them (94%) are satisfied with their experience, and nearly four in five (79%) say it has allowed them to take charge of their health. Survey respondents also indicated that convenience and accessibility are among the top traits that attract them to digital methods like virtual primary care.

Elevance Health, a leading health company dedicated to improving lives and communities, commissioned The Harris Poll to conduct an online study of over 5,000 US adults age 18+ around virtual primary care. Specifically, the study aimed to gain insights into consumer interest in virtual primary care as a resource to improve their health and wellbeing.

“Consumers are using digital technologies at an accelerating pace, and consistent with this, we’re seeing at Elevance Health use of telehealth that is nearly 20 times greater than pre-pandemic levels,” said Rajeev Ronanki, President of Digital Platforms at Elevance Health. “Virtual primary care gives individuals the opportunity to work with innovative services that make healthcare more convenient, accessible, and fit into their increasingly busy schedules. The study’s findings reiterate the desires of consumers to use digital technology – along with using traditional in-person care options – to take control of their health.”

Familiarity & Experience with Virtual Primary Care

While telehealth and online healthcare services are rising in popularity, Elevance Health found that Americans’ familiarity with virtual primary care is divided - with around half (48%) being familiar with the term. Nearly three-quarters of Americans (73%) like virtual primary care/find it appealing. Convenience (35%) and accessibility (31%) are among the top traits which Americans like or find appealing about virtual primary care. The overall ease of use (30%) is also appealing.

Even though a majority like/find virtual primary care appealing, people still have questions. Around three in ten Americans who have not used virtual primary care as a source of primary care (31%) believe that doctors need to see their problem in person to know what is wrong. Around a fifth say they do not know if it is covered by their insurance, so they feel it may cost more (21%). Fortunately, some health plans – like those affiliated with Elevance Health – include virtual primary care as a plan benefit.