ScienceSoft forecasts major shift to virtual care in the US by 2026

ScienceSoft, a healthcare software development and consulting firm, has released new research forecasting significant changes in healthcare delivery models across the United States.

According to the report, virtual medical consultations are expected to account for 25–30% of all healthcare appointments nationwide by 2026.

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Telemedicine adoption in the US accelerated rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic. While utilisation declined in the post-pandemic period, it has since stabilised at levels well above those seen before 2020. Mental healthcare continues to lead adoption, with more than 35% of all mental health visits conducted remotely in 2023.

Virtual healthcare enables medical providers to improve operational efficiency. Through the use of remote patient monitoring systems, clinicians can extend care into patients’ homes, expanding treatment capacity without the need for additional physical infrastructure.

However, the transition is not without challenges. ScienceSoft’s research highlights that clinicians accustomed to traditional care models may face difficulties adapting to digital delivery. The report emphasises the importance of structured training programmes and intuitive telehealth tools to ensure experienced practitioners feel confident using virtual care platforms.

Telemedicine is increasingly reshaping healthcare delivery by improving access, enhancing provider efficiency, and reducing costs. Remote patient monitoring allows clinicians to manage patients outside hospital settings, increase treatment capacity, and optimise resource use. Supporting this trend, a May 2023 McKinsey report found that virtual hospital models in Australia reduced care costs by up to 19% through telemedicine-enabled approaches.

Founded in 1989, ScienceSoft has delivered software engineering services for more than three decades and brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare information technology. The company supports healthcare transformation by developing specialised virtual care platforms for medical organisations. These solutions are designed to reduce operational costs, improve treatment outcomes, and expand access to care for remote populations, while remaining scalable and compliant with HIPAA requirements.

For more information, interested parties may contact the ScienceSoft team directly.