Potential of Telehealth to Mitigate Transport Barriers: Evidence from the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study examines telehealth use during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with high health care-related transportation burdens. Survey results of high-frequency health care users with public insurance were analyzed to investigate differences in telehealth use, care access, and perceived care quality between groups. Open text responses demonstrated whether and how telehealth can address transportation barriers and promote care access. While many respondents tried and preferred telehealth, it could not meet all medical needs. The continued availability of telehealth, coupled with improved transport planning to support in-person care needs, will expand access to care for high-frequency users.