ABSTRACT
Background: Telemedicine usage has accelerated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns those without the necessary technology and digital literacy to participate may face increasing health disparities. In this study, we examined the rates at which veterans are able to connect to two common telemedicine applications: VA Video Connect (VVC) and Doximity Dialer Video (DV). Methods: Participants were selected from a pool of vascular surgery patients seen from August 2020 to October 2021 at a single Veterans Affairs medical center. Participants had to be >50 years old and not previously participated in a video visit. Eligible veterans were asked their interest participating in video visits and if they owned a smartphone. Those who met the eligibility requirements were tested on their ability to connect to both VVC and DV with minimal assistance. The connectivity rate for both platforms was recorded, and basic demographic and medical history information was collected. Results: One-hundred-four veterans participated in the study, with an average age of 70 ± 7 years. Seventy-four participants (71%) expressed interest in video visits, and 52 (70%) owned a smartphone. Forty-five smartphone owners (87%) successfully connected to DV, whereas 19 (37%) successfully connected to VVC (p < 0.001). VVC connectivity decreased with increasing age-group: 50-59 = 80%, 60-69 = 44%, ≥70 = 18% (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Older veterans demonstrate difficulty connecting to VVC. The VHA is taking important steps to streamline usability of VVC, however continued expansion of support programs is necessary to improve access and reduce healthcare disparities in this population.