Perceived unmet healthcare needs among older Europeans in the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond: the telemedicine solution

Abstract

This study explores the determinants of unmet healthcare needs among older Europeans following the pandemic. Using data from the SHARE study involving 37,225 individuals aged 50 and above, we examine the barriers to healthcare access during the COVID-19 pandemic and the utilization of telemedicine. Approximately 15% of older adults reported unmet healthcare needs after the pandemic, while almost one in three utilized telemedicine during that period. Interestingly, those who used telehealth during the pandemic were more likely to report ongoing unmet healthcare needs. Persistent inequalities in healthcare access were observed for women, those living alone, individuals with financial challenges, and in poorer health. While telemedicine played an important role in enhancing healthcare access, its impact was limited, buffering only a part of unmet healthcare needs in the pandemic. Despite challenges in telemedicine adoption among older adults, it remains a promising tool for ensuring healthcare access in future emergencies.