Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Jun 17, 2020
Date Accepted: Sep 14, 2020
Date Submitted to PubMed: Sep 16, 2020
VA Video Connect For Clinical Care In Older Adults in a Rural State during COVID-19: A Cross-sectional Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for telehealth to home. Although the Department of Veteran’s Affairs is a leading provider of telehealth, disparities might exist in reaching older Veterans living in rural areas.
Objective:
The objective was to study the capability and willingness of older Veterans to participate in a VA Video Connect (VVC) visit during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted on older Veterans (N=118). Participants were interviewed over the phone. Availability of internet, email, and a device with camera were recorded. Willingness to complete the appointment via a VVC visit was asked. Those not capable of participating in a VVC visit were asked if they had a caregiver available to help.
Results:
Mean age was 72.6 (±8.3) years, 92% were male, 69% were Caucasian and 30% were African Americans. Thirty-six percent were rural. Majority reported having internet (77%), and email (70%), but only 56% had a device with camera, and 58% were willing to participate in the VVC visit. Availability of internet access was significantly lower in rural compared to non-rural participants (p=0.445); and in those with ≤ high school education compared to > high school education (p=0.019). Willingness to participate in the VVC visit was significantly lower in rural compared to non-rural participants (p=0.030).
Conclusions:
Despite the advances in technology, and the willingness on the part of healthcare systems, there might still be some lingering issues with capability and willingness to participate in video telehealth visits particularly among those residing in rural areas. Clinical Trial: Not applicable
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