Healthcare disparities in telemedicine for rheumatology care

Purpose of review We summarize the recent literature published in the last 2 years on healthcare disparities observed in the delivery of rheumatology care by telemedicine. We highlight recent research dissecting the underpinnings of healthcare disparities and identify potentially modifiable contributing factors. Recent findings The COVID-19 pandemic has had major impacts on care delivery and has led to a pronounced increase in telemedicine use in rheumatology practice. Telemedicine services are disproportionately underutilized by racial/ethnic minority groups and among patients with lower socioeconomic status. Disparities in telemedicine access and use among vulnerable populations threatens to exacerbate existing outcome inequalities affecting people with rheumatic disease. Telemedicine has the potential to expand rheumatology services by reaching traditionally underserved communities. However, some areas lack the infrastructure and technology to engage in telemedicine. Addressing health equity and the digital divide may help foster more inclusive telemedicine care.

Automated summary

This review summarizes recent literature on healthcare disparities in the delivery of rheumatology care through telemedicine in the past 2 years. Recent findings show that the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted care delivery and led to an increase in telemedicine use in rheumatology practice. However, racial/ethnic minority groups and patients with lower socioeconomic status are underutilizing telemedicine services. While telemedicine has the potential to expand rheumatology services, addressing health equity and the digital divide is crucial.