A recent study published in JAMA Network Open, and reported by The American Journal of Managed Care, found that more than half of patients with long-term conditions prefer remote consultations over in-person visits in certain scenarios.
Overall, 37% of surveyed patients preferred remote care across multiple clinical situations, with synchronous methods (such as video or phone visits) favored over asynchronous messaging. Preference for remote care was highest when discussing test results (43%) and renewing medications (55%). In contrast, patients were less likely to prefer remote visits for new or worsening symptoms and annual check-ups.
Notably, 51% of respondents said they would trade an in-person visit for an earlier direct-to-consumer remote consultation if experiencing new or worsening symptoms — suggesting access and timeliness remain key drivers of patient choice.
As virtual care continues to shape patient expectations, practices may want to evaluate how remote visit options fit into long-term condition management strategies.