Telehealth Utilization and Patient Experiences: The Role of Social Determinants of Health Among Individuals with Hypertension and Diabetes

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the utilization patterns, effectiveness, and patient satisfaction of telehealth services among individuals with hypertension and/or diabetes, and to investigate the influence of social determinants of health (SDOH) on telehealth access and utilization in this population. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS 6) by the National Cancer Institute. The study sample included 3,009 respondents with self-reported diabetes, hypertension, or both conditions. Telehealth usage was assessed through 14 survey questions, and participant characteristics were analyzed using sociodemographic, baseline health, and SDOH data. Results: Of the 6,252 HINTS 6 survey respondents, 3,009 met the inclusion criteria. Significant sociodemographic differences were observed across the diabetes and/or hypertension groups. No significant differences were found in telehealth usage among the groups, with 43.9% of respondents utilizing telehealth in the past year. Common reasons for telehealth use included provider recommendation, convenience, and infection avoidance. Social determinants of health, such as food insecurity and transportation issues, were more prevalent among individuals with both conditions, though no significant differences in telehealth experiences were noted across groups. Conclusion: Telehealth shows potential for managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, demonstrating substantial adoption and universal accessibility. However, disparities influenced by SDOH highlight the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable access. Addressing privacy concerns, leveraging healthcare providers' recommendations, and tackling SDOH barriers are crucial for fostering wider telehealth adoption and improving outcomes. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of telehealth and further investigate SDOH factors to develop tailored interventions that enhance engagement and equitable access across diverse patient populations.