Gaps in internet use narrowed among older adults with Medicare during the COVID-19 pandemic but persist

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted that accessing healthcare providers can be difficult for older adults, especially those with multiple chronic conditions who depend on primary care for disease management. The internet is a powerful tool for increasing access to healthcare information, resources, and social supports. Unfortunately, there is a “digital divide” in internet connectivity and use associated with social and demographic characteristics. During the pandemic, the federal government loosened regulatory restrictions and other barriers to encourage use of telemedicine. Efforts were made to expand internet access by expanding broadband coverage and by providing subsidized devices and internet plans to low-income households, and clinicians employed strategies to make telehealth more accessible. Still, an internet access and skills gap may remain, limiting the potential of telemedicine to be applied equitably. If so, closing the digital divide may be critical for avoiding disparities in access to healthcare, especially for patients with mobility or transportation limitations. We examined change in internet use during the pandemic for people with Medicare aged 65 and older in the 50 states and DC.