Telemedicine in a primary care clinic in Fairbanks, Alaska: Not a magic bullet for providing treatment during COVID-19

Abstract

Stay-at-home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic have increased patients’ reliance on virtual physician visits, via telemedicine. Telemedicine has benefits of use during the pandemic and has benefits outside of the pandemic. It is underutilized in certain types of medical organizations, providers, and among specific populations in the United States. It is important to understand the barriers to incorporating telemedicine effectively in the areas that it is underutilized, especially in rural locations. The researcher discussed the telemedicine expansion for two family practice doctors in Fairbanks, Alaska (AK). The family practice doctors experienced barriers that partially echo what has been stated in research. Research suggests that changes to Medicare and Medicaid telemedicine policies may not be enough to address these barriers. Other supports to expand telemedicine where it is needed includes providing more incentives to providers, waivers from insurance companies for patients to purchase equipment, and more education to patients about when, how, and where to receive telemedicine. More supports need to be provided to those underserved by telemedicine, especially for clients who are on Medicaid, living in low-income areas, and/or living in rural locations.