The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physicians’ Perception of Digital Health in Orthopedics

Abstract

Digital health and technology have been growing in healthcare over the past 10 years as they have allowed for health systems to remotely deliver virtual care at scale. Despite this, providers and healthcare systems have traditionally viewed technology as an additional asset, or even a burden in some cases, rather than a necessity. Due to the impact of COVID-19 on in-person treatment options for millions of patients, a rapid adoption of telemedicine and virtual healthcare services has been seen across the country and the globe. A survey (Appendix A) was conducted that included respondents from all roles within leading healthcare organizations - from surgeons to nurses to administrators & more. By analyzing data from various healthcare personas, we aimed to paint a complete picture of the orthopedic healthcare industry. COVID-19 has challenged the healthcare system and physicians to reimagine the ways they have traditionally delivered care to patients. While barriers to adoption exist – including reimbursement and operational efficiencies – the orthopedic community is on track to have virtual care and telemedicine as a new normal long after the pandemic has come to an end. Forward-thinking healthcare systems and physician groups that rise to the challenge and adapt to this change will continue to make strides in improving patient care and driving this forward momentum, wherein healthcare can be a true hybrid of virtual and in-person care that best suits the needs of all patients.