Transition to telemedicine has come with considerable reductions in carbon emissions: Study

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🗞️ Driving the news: A new study published in the American Journal of Managed Care finds that telemedicine reduced U.S. carbon dioxide emissions by the equivalent of up to 130,000 gas-powered cars per month in 2023
• The research, analyzing nearly 1.5 million telemedicine visits, suggests digital healthcare can significantly lower emissions by avoiding in-person travel

🔭 The context: Telemedicine saw rapid expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic due to emergency policy relaxations
• While usage has declined post-pandemic, the U.S. health sector remains a major emitter, contributing around 9% of the country’s greenhouse gases
• The transportation sector, key in healthcare access, accounts for over 28% of national emissions

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Transitioning to telemedicine can play a meaningful role in reducing the carbon footprint of healthcare services
• Though not a standalone solution, it complements broader decarbonization efforts by targeting emissions from patient transport and healthcare facilities
• Sustained policy support is essential to maintain these gains as usage wanes

⏭️ What's next: As Congress debates whether to extend pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities, this research may shape legislative decisions
• Policymakers must weigh the environmental co-benefits alongside healthcare access, cost, and equity
• Any rollback in telehealth could reverse sustainability progress, especially in rural and underserved areas

💬 One quote: “Telemedicine has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of U.S. health care delivery,” — Dr. John Mafi, lead author and associate professor at UCLA

📈 One stat: In 2023, telemedicine reduced monthly carbon emissions by an estimated 21.4 to 47.6 million kilograms — equivalent to recycling up to 4 million trash bags

See on illuminem's Data Hub™ the sustainability performance of Siemens Healthineers and its peers AMN Healthcare Services, and Teladoc Health

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