Telemedicine - Statistics and Facts

  • Published Date: 25 Jan 2025


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https://www.who.int/health-topics/digital-health#tab=tab_1 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10425816/ https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/telehealth


Telemedicine: The Future of Healthcare

Telemedicine has witnessed a commendable growth in recent years, propelled by technological advancement and a growing demographic willing to pay and access care. Experts projected the global telemedicine market to reach a value of approximately $97.15 billion by 2023. Experts predict that the market will rise to $107.52 billion in 2024 and continue to expand to $432.31 billion by 2032. Driving forces behind this surge are increased adoption of digital health solutions, major investments in telemedicine infrastructure, as well as increased internet connectivity services across the globe. Patients have a strong inclination towards telemedicine.

Over 116 million individuals around the world availed themselves of online doctors visits in 2024, quite a jump from 57 million in 2019. The progression points to expanding preference with respect to the disposal of remote healthcare services that offer convenience and accessibility, particularly to the poor or rural. The COVID-19 pandemic only amplified this trend, thereby drawing serious attention to the importance of telemedicine in sustaining health care continuity during times of crisis.

While the use of telemedicine in healthcare is growing globally, it appears to be declining in some areas, such as the United States. In 2022, only 30.1% of adults aged 18–64 were involved in telemedicine, compared to 37.0% in 2021. This decline was uneven across sociodemographic aspects, suggesting that women, those with college education, and urban populations were the main sources of teleinformation. In all corners of the world, telemedicine is recognized as an indispensable component of healthcare; it enables accessibility, reduces patient transport times, and saves both patients and providers money. Further developments in technology and policies will, somehow, enhance the adoption and efficacy of telemedicine across the globe.

While the use of telemedicine in healthcare is growing globally, it appears to be declining in some areas, such as the United States. In 2022, only 30.1% of adults aged 18–64 were involved in telemedicine, compared to 37.0% in 2021. This decline was uneven across sociodemographic aspects, suggesting that women, those with college education, and urban populations were the main sources of teleinformation. In all corners of the world, telemedicine is recognized as an indispensable component of healthcare; it enables accessibility, reduces patient transport times, and saves both patients and providers money. Further developments in technology and policies will, somehow, enhance the adoption and efficacy of telemedicine across the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Telemedicine refers to the use of digital technology to provide remote healthcare services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers via video calls, phone consultations, or online messaging. It works by connecting patients with doctors or specialists through secure communication platforms, enabling diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care without the need for in-person visits.
As of 2024, over 116 million people globally are using telemedicine for online doctor consultations. This marks a significant increase from 57 million in 2019, highlighting the growing adoption of telemedicine services worldwide.
Telemedicine requires a secure and stable internet connection, a computer, smartphone, or tablet with a camera and microphone, and telemedicine software or platforms that comply with healthcare regulations (like HIPAA in the U.S.). Healthcare providers also need specialized telemedicine equipment for monitoring patients remotely, such as digital stethoscopes or blood pressure monitors.