Although many patients report not knowing what telemedicine is, the majority are receptive to its application, according to an Aloft Group report.
Here's what you need to know:
1. A total of 47.7 percent of healthcare consumers said they were not familiar with the term "telemedicine."
2. However, 51.4 percent reported having received an email or text message from a physician or clinician.
3. Of the respondents who had received an email or text message from a healthcare provider, 72.8 percent reported that the interaction was "positive/convenient."
4. A total of 78.5 percent of respondents said they would be at least somewhat comfortable interacting with a physician via online video or online chat.
5. A total of 27.3 percent of respondents use a wearable activity tracker, 76.4 percent of whom report using the device data to initiate lifestyle changes; these changes typically include adjusting eating or sleeping habits.