Older Americans Travel Far for Healthcare | USC Study

March 13, 2026 Ananya Mittal - World Editor

The assumption that access to healthcare diminishes with distance is being challenged. New research indicates older Americans are often willing to travel significantly farther than previously thought to receive medical care, a finding with implications for telehealth expansion and healthcare planning as hospitals consolidate and rural facilities close. This willingness, however, isn’t uniform, and appears closely tied to socioeconomic factors.

Travel Time Tolerances Vary by Care Type

A study recently published in JAMA Network Open, conducted by researchers at the USC Dornsife Center for Economic and Social Research (CESR), surveyed a nationally representative group of adults aged 65 and older. The study quantified not just current travel behaviors, but as well the point at which patients might delay or forgo medical appointments due to the burden of travel. The results revealed a surprising degree of resilience. Respondents indicated they would tolerate approximately 68 minutes of travel time for primary care visits, but were willing to go much further for specialized care – 113 minutes for a diagnostic test like an MRI, and 128 minutes for a specialist appointment. USC Dornsife News reports these findings suggest that distance alone isn’t the primary barrier to care for older adults.

This willingness to travel challenges conventional wisdom, particularly as the healthcare landscape shifts. Hospital closures and practice consolidations are increasingly common, concentrating services in regional hubs. The question of “how far is too far” for vulnerable populations, especially seniors, has grow increasingly urgent. The USC study suggests that physical distance is less of a deterrent than previously believed.

Socioeconomic Factors and Access to Care

The study highlights that willingness to travel isn’t solely about distance. Socioeconomic status plays a significant role. Individuals with greater financial resources and more mobility are more likely to be able to overcome the logistical challenges of long-distance travel to access healthcare. This has implications for equity in healthcare access. Those with limited resources may face greater barriers, even if they are equally motivated to receive care. ScienMag emphasizes this nuance, noting that the study indicates a complex interplay of factors influencing healthcare utilization.

Understanding America Study Methodology

The USC Dornsife CESR researchers leveraged data from the Understanding America Study, an internet-based panel. This approach allowed them to gather detailed information on both current travel patterns and the thresholds at which patients might postpone or cancel appointments due to travel burdens. While internet-based panels offer broad reach, it’s important to acknowledge potential limitations. Individuals without internet access or limited digital literacy may be underrepresented, potentially introducing a degree of bias into the findings.

Telehealth and the Future of Healthcare Access

The study’s findings have particular relevance in the context of expanding telehealth services. As more care is delivered remotely, understanding how willing patients are to travel for in-person visits becomes crucial. If older adults are willing to travel substantial distances for certain types of care, it suggests that telehealth may not be a complete substitute for in-person services, particularly for specialized treatments or diagnostic procedures. However, telehealth can still play a vital role in bridging gaps in access, especially for those facing transportation challenges or living in remote areas.

Clinicians recognize both the benefits and challenges of telehealth for older adults. A study published in Telemed J E Health found that clinicians continue to use telehealth at high rates, despite identifying challenges in its implementation with this population. The National Institutes of Health reports that this suggests a continued commitment to leveraging technology to improve access to care, even as clinicians navigate the complexities of serving older patients remotely.

What to Consider When Evaluating Healthcare Options

For older adults and their families, these findings underscore the importance of proactive healthcare planning. Consider these points when evaluating options:

  • Specialty Care Access: If you require specialized care, be prepared to travel, and factor travel time into your appointment scheduling.
  • Transportation Options: Explore available transportation resources, including public transit, ride-sharing services, and volunteer transportation programs.
  • Telehealth Potential: Discuss with your doctor whether telehealth is a suitable option for any part of your care plan.
  • Financial Considerations: Factor in travel costs (gas, parking, tolls) when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

Ongoing Research and Policy Implications

The USC Dornsife study is part of a broader effort to understand the evolving healthcare needs of an aging population. Researchers are continuing to investigate the factors that influence healthcare access and utilization, with a focus on identifying strategies to improve equity and ensure that all older adults have access to the care they need. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of healthcare consolidation and the impact of telehealth on patient outcomes. Policymakers will need to consider these findings as they develop strategies to address healthcare access challenges in the years to come. The study’s findings will likely inform ongoing discussions about transportation planning and the allocation of healthcare resources.