Exploring the Patient Experience and Perspective in Virtual-First Primary Care: A Cross-Sectional Study from an Integrated Health System.

ABSTRACT

Background: Little is known about the implication of launching virtual-first primary care (VPC) in a health system. Our experience and survey can guide others to establish their virtual-first programs. This study examines implementation, patient perspectives, and satisfaction with VPC at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). Methods: We conducted a Web-based survey to examine factors associated with the likelihood of early adoption and continued use of VPC. We used bivariate comparisons and cluster analysis to evaluate the results. The survey was sent to 1,420 patients seen between August 2022 and January 2023. Responses related to demographics, doctor-patient relations, savings, experience, and future preferences of use were aggregated. To evaluate the relationship between demographics and survey responses, we conducted univariate analysis. Results: Females and patients between 40 and 50 years of age were the primary users and indicated the most interest in continued use. Health insurance status seems not to be a significant predictor in the selection and use of VPC. Most (78%) felt that the physician-patient relationship was unimpaired. The survey showed that 90% of patients saved time by using VPC, and 66% reported saving money on tolls, childcare, or gasoline. Only 13% reported not wanting to continue VPC. Discussion: A majority of surveyed patients felt the doctor-patient relationship was not negatively affected in VPC. VPC programs can be implemented with high patient satisfaction in an integrated health system. VPC is acceptable to most patients, and further expansion of the model is warranted.