Direct-To-Consumer Commercial Virtual Care: A Scoping Review

The scoping review on direct-to-consumer (DTC) commercial virtual care synthesized evidence from 103 studies, primarily from the USA, focusing on quality of care, health outcomes, platform characteristics, and patient views. Despite high patient satisfaction due to convenience, concerns about missed diagnoses, overdiagnosis, and disrupted continuity of care were noted. Many studies lacked control groups, limiting insights into impacts on quality of care and health outcomes. Financial ties to the virtual care industry were noted in 31.1% of the studies, suggesting potential bias. The review highlights the need for more rigorous research to better understand the implications of DTC virtual care, as it may contribute to fragmented care, inequitable access, and low-value care. It advises policymakers and insurers to be cautious about adopting the DTC model and recommends consideration of alternative virtual care models.