An Economic Evaluation of Online Doctor Consultations: A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Healthcare Resource Utilization and Patient Expenditures

Increasingly common recently as a way to increase healthcare access and convenience are online medical consultations. This paper evaluates the effect of online doctor consultations on the use of healthcare resources and patient expenses by means of a thorough cost-benefit analysis. Direct medical costs, patient out-of-pocket spending, and changes in productivity are among the many economic costs and advantages the study covers. The results imply that, for patients as well as the healthcare system, online consultations might result in cost savings, including lower hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and travel charges. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the general economic viability and influence of online doctor consultations by including these economic elements. Keywords: Online doctor consultation, healthcare resources, patient expenses, cost-benefit analysis.