By: Bunmi Yekini
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a groundbreaking tool designed to break down the barriers many patients face when accessing telehealth services. The new Digital Health Readiness Screener, published in JAMA Network Open, is a 24-question tool that measures both a patient’s technical readiness and concerns about the quality of care in a virtual setting.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth quickly became a lifeline for patients unable to attend in-person doctor visits. But having a smartphone or computer wasn’t always enough for patients to access or engage with their healthcare effectively. As Dr. Kristin Rising, the study’s senior author, pointed out, “Just because a patient has a smartphone or tablet does not mean they will be able to access their health information or engage in other health services.”
The research, which included 304 patients at Jefferson Health, revealed significant differences in telehealth readiness based on age, education, and health literacy. Those who were younger and had more education were generally more comfortable with using digital health tools. However, even these findings only scratch the surface of the deeper issues that can prevent telehealth access.
“Do patients trust the use of technology for private medical conversations? Do they have a quiet, private space to engage in telehealth visits?” Dr. Rising explained. “These are critical questions that go beyond simply having the right technology.”
The study also highlights the importance of addressing digital health inequities among diverse populations. Almost half of the participants in the study were Black, and Dr. Rising emphasized the need for future work to adapt the screener for non-English speakers and other groups. “Significant work is needed to develop interventions specifically to address the various barriers assessed within this screener,” she said.
Co-author Amy Leader stressed the broader impact the tool could have: “Health systems are increasingly interested in addressing digital health equity, and this screener gives us a tangible starting point.”
In addition to developing the screener, Dr. Rising’s team has launched programs like the Jefferson Digital Onboarding Taskforce, which provides one-on-one support for hospitalized patients to help them navigate telehealth tools. The hope is that with these kinds of interventions, patients can not only improve their digital literacy but also build trust in telehealth as a reliable option for care.
Looking to the future, Dr. Rising hopes the screener can be simplified for routine use, allowing healthcare providers to tailor interventions for each patient’s specific needs. “Access, digital literacy, and trust barriers all require different interventions,” she said. “This screener can help inform how to most efficiently and effectively address those needs.”
The ultimate goal? Ensuring that all patients, regardless of their background, can make informed decisions about whether telehealth is right for them. As Dr. Rising put it, “Some people may still decide telehealth isn’t for them, and that’s okay. But everyone deserves the tools and information to make that choice.”