Virtual Care Use in the Workplace

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth use was extremely low. Use surged once the pandemic began, as people were discouraged from seeking care in person. However, employers are still concerned some employees are not receiving adequate care. Only 20% of employees sought virtual care in 2021, and overall employee use decreased throughout the year. To examine which employees are using virtual care throughout the pandemic, IBI conducted an analysis of data on virtual care use.

The study analyzed data from the 2020 National Health Interview Survey (July to December), and the 2021 Household Pulse Survey (April to October). Across both years, data showed that men utilized virtual care less than women. Individuals between 18 and 24 years of age were least likely to use virtual care, along with those who have a high school education or less.