Examining models of telemedicine use among U.S. physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic

The purpose of this study is to apply the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and technology acceptance model (TAM) to U.S. physicians’ adoption of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 230 physicians licensed in the U.S. completed a cross-sectional survey during the COVID-19 pandemic assessing telemedicine use and components of the TRA and TAM. Path models representing the TRA, TAM, and a trimmed version of the TAM were tested. The TRA was an adequate to poor fit for modeling physicians’ decisions concerning telemedicine use. The TAM demonstrated better fit, although a trimmed TAM was ultimately retained for parsimony with mostly good or adequate fit indices. Subjective norms, perceived usefulness, and attitude toward telemedicine may be important targets for trainings and advocacy efforts to facilitate and sustain telemedicine use in a post-pandemic context.