Telehealth Usage Remains High in Palm Beach County Two Years Post-Pandemic

While many pandemic-era adaptations have faded, telehealth has proven to be a lasting transformation in healthcare delivery across Palm Beach County. New data from the Florida Hospital Association shows that virtual visits in the county remain at roughly 40 percent of their pandemic peak, far exceeding pre-2020 levels.

The sustained adoption reflects both patient preference and provider investment. Major health systems in the region, including Baptist Health South Florida and Tenet Healthcare, have expanded their telehealth platforms and hired dedicated virtual care staff.

Who Benefits Most?

Mental health services have seen the strongest telehealth retention, with more than 60 percent of therapy and psychiatric consultations in the county still conducted virtually. Dermatology follow-ups, chronic disease management, and medication reviews also remain popular telehealth use cases.

"For my patients managing diabetes or hypertension, a quick video check-in every few weeks is far more effective than waiting three months for an in-person visit," said Dr. Kevin Patel, an internist in Delray Beach. "We catch problems earlier and adjust medications faster."

Challenges Remain

Not all patients have equal access to telehealth. Digital literacy gaps, particularly among older residents, and inconsistent broadband access in western Palm Beach County continue to create disparities. The county's Community Services Department has responded with free digital literacy workshops and partnerships with local libraries to provide telehealth-enabled spaces.

Insurance coverage for telehealth also remains a work in progress, with some plans scaling back reimbursement for virtual visits. Healthcare advocates are pushing state legislators to make pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities permanent.