Enhancing Rural Endocrinology Care Through Telemedicine: New Study Highlights Positive Impact

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh highlights the significant role telemedicine has played in expanding access to endocrinology care for rural populations, especially amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The research analyzed data from over 9,000 patients across Pennsylvania, examining the use of telehealth services for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases during two periods: before and after the onset of the pandemic. Prior to telemedicine's expanded use, patients living further from specialist clinics faced greater barriers in receiving necessary care. However, the expansion of telehealth options helped bridge this gap, making it easier for high-risk individuals to access endocrinology services.

Lead researcher Dr. Margaret Zupa explained that the findings are promising because they demonstrate telemedicine's capacity to reach the most vulnerable patients. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes are at increased risk for strokes, heart attacks, and death if not properly managed. Importantly, the study also explored cardiology care access, revealing that while telemedicine improved reach for endocrinology, other factors like neighborhood walkability, race, and cellphone access more strongly influenced cardiology care utilization.

The study further noted disparities, with older patients and Black patients less likely to receive specialty care regardless of telemedicine availability. These insights underscore the need for targeted strategies to reduce healthcare disparities. Overall, the findings suggest that telemedicine is a vital tool in enhancing healthcare accessibility in rural areas, potentially leading to better health outcomes for patients with chronic conditions.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-telemedicine-access-endocrinology-rural-patients.html