Medicare Changes Spur Spike in Seniors' Telehealth Use, Says Parks

Nearly a third of U.S. consumers 65 and older are considering buying an independent living system, reported Parks Associates Tuesday, as 34% own a smart speaker or smart display and 76% use a smartphone. “High levels of interest in particular features, including safety and security functions, indicate demand for a solution designed specifically for senior comfort and control,” said analyst Kristen Hanich. COVID-19 presented new challenges, and senior telehealth usage nearly quadrupled year over year in May to 29%, led by phone calls and video chats; 11% used self-diagnosis apps. The bump in telehealth service usage was driven by changes in Medicare reimbursement and rollout of remote visit functionality among physicians, Hanich said. “Health insurers and telehealth services also quickly moved to support this cohort.” Telehealth companies advanced to support Medicare Part B, with Doctor on Demand rolling out a service soon after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services expanded Medicare telehealth reimbursement, Hanich said.