A Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Telehealth Policies on Healthcare Access, Quality, and Cost in the Post-Covid-19 Era in the United States

Abstract

Access to high-quality, cost-effective healthcare remains a critical national priority in the United States, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth policies have emerged as key strategies to expand healthcare delivery, reduce disparities, and improve system efficiency. Evaluating their effectiveness is essential to inform national policy and optimize health outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Electronic databases including MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies published from 2020 to 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, and cohort studies assessing the impact of telehealth policies on healthcare access, quality, and cost in U.S. settings. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Pooled effect sizes and proportions were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses examined effects across rural versus urban populations and states with reimbursement parity policies. A total of 16 studies involving over 42,000 patients and providers were included. Telehealth policies were associated with significant improvements in healthcare access (ES = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.60–0.75), patient-reported quality of care (82%; 95% CI: 78–86%), and cost reduction (18%; 95% CI: 12–24%). Effects were more pronounced in rural populations and in states with reimbursement parity policies, highlighting the role of policy and geographic context in shaping telehealth outcomes. Telehealth policies in the United States significantly enhance access, maintain high quality of care, and contribute to moderate cost savings. These findings underscore the national importance of sustaining supportive telehealth policies, expanding broadband infrastructure, and standardizing regulatory frameworks to optimize healthcare delivery and equity.

KEYWORDS: Telehealth; Broadband, Policy, Health policy; Access to care; Quality of care; Cost reduction; United States; Systematic review; Meta-analysis

DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/151-06

Publication date: April 28^th 2026