Telemedicine doesn't increase health care costs

Telehealth was once viewed primarily as a convenience tool — a way to connect patients and physicians when distance, scheduling or public health concerns made in-person care difficult. But as virtual care has become a permanent part of the health care landscape, a larger question has emerged: Does telehealth reduce health care costs, or does it simply increase the amount of care being used?

Supporters argue that telehealth can improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and make health care more accessible, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Virtual visits may also help patients address medical concerns earlier, potentially preventing more serious and expensive complications later. At the same time, critics warn that telehealth may encourage overuse by making it easier for patients to seek care for minor issues they might otherwise manage on their own.

The debate has drawn increasing attention from policy makers, insurers, employers and health care providers as telehealth utilization continues to grow. Questions surrounding reimbursement, quality of care and long-term financial impact remain unresolved. A new study from UCLA sheds some light on these questions. Here are the key findings: