JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

The telehealth sector of healthcare delivery experienced exponential growth at the start of the pandemic, and virtual care quickly became essential for the ongoing safety of patients and providers. When vaccines were introduced, telehealth companies lost value as the necessity of virtual care appeared to end. Presently, both incumbents and new entrants to the space are seeking ways to innovate, gain investor and customer buy-in, and overcome competitors. New companies are hoping to be seen not as a pandemic-era substitute, but instead a beneficial option utilized for having cutting edge technology, convenience, and overall health benefits. This struggle is reflected in fluctuating stock prices and dropping valuations. While investors may be reasonably hesitant regarding individual telehealth companies, the industry can expect slowed but continued growth – with the potential for another explosion as subsequent global pandemics loom on the horizon.