Study: Portal Messaging Copays May Limit Access for Older Adults
Click to Enlarge
A recent JAMA Network Open study found that while 81% of adults aged 50 to 80 use digital health technologies like patient portals and telehealth, many are charged fees for messaging their physicians. In particular, 13% of older adults surveyed reported being billed for sending a portal message, raising concerns about access and affordability for patients on fixed incomes.
Those with private insurance or Medicaid were among the most likely to be charged, while only 3.3% of patients with VA or military coverage reported similar fees. Even modest copays—ranging from $14 to $40—may discourage essential communication, especially for older adults managing chronic conditions or living in rural or low-income communities. As patient messaging becomes standard practice, physicians must consider how digital billing policies may unintentionally widen care gaps.
Use of Patient Portal Messaging and Self-Reported Copays Among US Adults 50 Years or Older (JAMA, Liu, MD, MS, 4/4).
