Telemedicine Journal And E-health[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The Assessment of the Attitudes of People Seeking Services from Family Medicine Units Toward Telemedicine Practices.
Balik Kozak T, Bulca Acar A
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42132100 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the attitudes of patients visiting family medicine units toward telemedicine services in order to assess the extent of social acceptance of digitalization in primary health care...
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the attitudes of patients visiting family medicine units toward telemedicine services in order to assess the extent of social acceptance of digitalization in primary health care services. METHODS: This cross-sectional and descriptive study included 333 individuals aged 18 years and older who visited the Family Medicine units at the Antalya Training and Research Hospital between April 1, 2025, and June 1, 2025. The "Attitude Scale for the Use of Telemedicine Services" developed by Yucel and Uyar, was administered to the participants through face-to-face interviews conducted by researchers, utilizing a 5-point Likert scale. RESULTS: The mean scale score for participants was determined to be 61.46 ± 13.27, and a significant negative correlation was found between age and scale scores ( < 0.001). The overall scores rose notably, as the education level increased ( < 0.001). The attitude scores for those who used smartphones and computers, respectively, were significantly greater than for those who did not use them ( = 0.006, = 0.001). A significant correlation was found between the lack of trust in treatment offered via telemedicine services and the willingness to use such services if information was provided by a family physician ( < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that, alongside demographic factors, contact with family physicians is a determining factor in shaping people's attitudes toward telemedicine services. The active involvement of family physicians in telemedicine practices could facilitate the integration of digital health care services into the community.
High Patient Satisfaction in a Telemedicine-Based Virtual-First Hospital-at-Home Program: A Large Real-World Cohort Study.
Mir Montero M, Alonso MNM, Peña Y Lillo Echevarría G … +9 more , Arroyo Urea EM, Laguna García L, Soto Medina L, García CÚ, Rubio Parra R, Muñoz SH, Ruiz MOG, Guillén CB, AI-DOMUS Research Group
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42126191 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Hospital-at-Home (HaH) programs supported by telemedicine have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional hospitalization. However, evidence on patient experience in large-scale, real-world virtual-fi...
BACKGROUND: Hospital-at-Home (HaH) programs supported by telemedicine have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional hospitalization. However, evidence on patient experience in large-scale, real-world virtual-first models remains limited. The objective of this research was to evaluate patient experience and satisfaction in a telemedicine-based, virtual-first HaH program. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study, including adult patients admitted to a virtual-first HaH program at a tertiary hospital in Madrid, Spain, between October 2020 and May 2025. Patient experience was assessed at discharge using a routinely implemented digital questionnaire. A set of 18 common items across questionnaire versions was analyzed, covering communication, perceived safety, professional competence, and overall satisfaction. Responses were standardized and dichotomized using a top-box approach. RESULTS: A total of 887 patients were included (median age 64 years; median length of stay 9 days). Patient experience was highly positive, with satisfaction rates exceeding 95% across most domains. Perceived safety was reported by 98.98% of patients, and 97.06% indicated that telemedicine was easily integrated into daily life. Overall satisfaction reached 96.50%, and the same proportion would choose the HaH model again. CONCLUSIONS: A telemedicine-based, virtual-first HaH program achieved very high levels of patient satisfaction and perceived safety in a large real-world cohort. These findings support the feasibility and acceptability of virtual-first models for acute hospital care, demonstrating consistent patient experience across diverse clinical profiles, age groups, and lengths of stay.
Abstracts ATA NEXUS 2026 May 12-14 Orlando, Florida.
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42126124 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Telehealth Use and Nonuse Among Cancer Survivors in the United States and Associations with Adverse Social Determinants of Health.
Alcaraz KI, Cohen CM, Connor AE
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42118607 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Adverse social determinants of health (SDOH) influence healthcare utilization in cancer survivorship, yet limited research has examined associations of SDOH with telehealth use among cancer survivors. This st...
BACKGROUND: Adverse social determinants of health (SDOH) influence healthcare utilization in cancer survivorship, yet limited research has examined associations of SDOH with telehealth use among cancer survivors. This study examined telehealth use and associations with adverse SDOH in a nationally representative sample of cancer survivors. METHODS: The study utilized cross-sectional data from adult cancer survivors who responded to the National Cancer Institute's Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) in 2022 (HINTS 6) and 2024 (HINTS 7). Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression were used to examine associations between experiencing adverse SDOH and telehealth use, based on variables for each individual adverse SDOH and a composite variable reflecting the total number of adverse SDOH. Unweighted frequencies and weighted percentages are reported. RESULTS: Of the 1,912 cancer survivors, representing more than 11 million survivors, 42.8% used telehealth. Younger age, being obese, and having ≥3 comorbidities were associated with greater telehealth use. For all SDOH measures, experiencing adverse SDOH was positively associated with telehealth use in bivariate analyses. In multivariable analyses, survivors experiencing one adverse SDOH had twice the odds of using telehealth as survivors not experiencing adverse SDOH (odds ratio 2.03, 95% confidence interval 1.08-3.80). However, experiencing more than one adverse SDOH was not associated with telehealth use. Several reasons for telehealth use and nonuse varied by adverse SDOH. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that telehealth is an accessible tool among some survivors experiencing adverse SDOH. However, targeted strategies may be needed for survivors experiencing multiple SDOH.
Evaluation of a Brief Telepsychotherapy Service Offered in a Brazilian Capital.
Pereira NAPG, Brandão PS, Cristina Ciccone Giacon B … +1 more , Faria M
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42117308 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a brief telepsychotherapy service within the Brazilian Unified Health System in a Brazilian capital (April 2024-April 2025), analyzing its functioning, outcomes, and contribution to access in prima...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a brief telepsychotherapy service within the Brazilian Unified Health System in a Brazilian capital (April 2024-April 2025), analyzing its functioning, outcomes, and contribution to access in primary health care (PHC). METHODS: A quantitative descriptive study using secondary data from the service's regulatory system and records. Individuals ≥18 years of age with a therapeutic outcome during the period were included. Descriptive, bivariate (chi-square, Welch's , and Mann-Whitney), and binary logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: One hundred and ninety-three users participated, predominantly women (88.1%) and adults aged 25-59 years (80.3%). The outcome was discharge in 37.8% and discontinuation in 62.2%. Reasons for discontinuation included absences (30.6%), unsuitability (13.5%), at the patient's request (12.4%), and referral to the psychosocial care center (5.7%). In the regulatory system, "Mental and behavioral disorders" (ICD F00-F99; = 126) predominated, with frequent use of ICD Z codes, suggesting diagnostic difficulties in PHC. Most teleconsultations occurred in urban units (97.2%), with 77.7% of requests coming from units with multiprofessional teams in primary health care (eMULTI); the average attendance rate was 58.75%. In bivariate analyses, the outcome was associated with the presence of eMULTI ( = 0.0398) and the ICD chapter ( = 0.0056). The attendance rate differed significantly between high-level and low-level attendance ( < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Telepsychology is a relevant strategy to expand access and reduce unmet demand in PHC. However, challenges regarding adherence and continuity persist. Effectiveness depends on clear workflows, qualified teams, and engagement and integration strategies between PHC and specialized services.
The View Is Based on Perspective.
Doarn CR
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Jun · PMID 42097992 · Publisher ↗
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Assessing the Quality of Telehealth Services in Latin America Using ISO/TS 13131:2021.
Freitas MAC, Hernández Montoya YA, Pacheco López A … +8 more , Cotrina Urteaga BI, Canto Rondon SBR, Mattoli Chiavarelli M, Avendaño Veloso A, Macieira C, Menezes Amaral CE, Teixeira de Aguiar RA, Santos AFD
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42084602 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Telehealth has emerged as a fundamental component for improving health efficiency and access in Latin America. In this regard, it is essential to investigate the quality of the services offered and structur...
INTRODUCTION: Telehealth has emerged as a fundamental component for improving health efficiency and access in Latin America. In this regard, it is essential to investigate the quality of the services offered and structure best practices for their implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. This study aims to evaluate the quality of 15 telehealth services from 4 Latin American countries across 3 dimensions. METHODS: An instrument for evaluating the quality of telehealth services was developed and validated by Latin American experts, based on the Service Planning, Risk Management, and Technology Management domains of ISO/TS 13131:2021. After validation, data from 15 services in Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Peru were analyzed. The following tests were applied: Content Validation Index, Shapiro-Wilk, Analysis of Variance, Kruskal-Wallis, and Fisher to validate content and verify associations between countries and service quality, classified into low, medium, and high levels. RESULTS: The instrument showed S-CVI for Relevance = 0.96; Clarity = 0.86; General = 0.91. There was no statistically significant association between countries and service quality. Overall, 60% of services were classified as low (46.67%) or medium quality (13.33%), while 40% presented high quality. Mean scores were 9.8/15 for Service Planning, 8.5/12 for Risk Management, and 21.5/35 for Technology Management, resulting in a general mean of 39.8/62 points. CONCLUSION: The results highlight gaps in the quality of the evaluated telehealth services. The instrument's validation confirms its applicability as a tool for telehealth quality assessment.
The Role of Telehealth in Decreasing Barriers in Accessing Primary and Specialized Care Services in U.S. Rural and Underserved Communities: A Scoping Review.
Lobaina D, Llorens C, Eldawy N … +12 more , Kosseifi G, Puvvala A, Srivastav M, Miron E, Frishman M, Nasr M, Jhumkhawala V, Jimenez S, Etzel M, Knecht M, Mejia M, Sacca L
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42059914 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Telehealth has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate access barriers, particularly following rapid expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, evidence on its role across care settings and populati...
BACKGROUND: Telehealth has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate access barriers, particularly following rapid expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, evidence on its role across care settings and populations remains fragmented. This scoping review synthesizes United States (U.S.)-based evidence on the role of telehealth in improving access to primary and specialized medical care for underserved, rural, and hard-to-reach adult populations. METHODS: Guided by the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, peer-reviewed studies were identified through PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Eligible studies examined telehealth use in adult U.S. populations and reported outcomes related to health care access, social determinants of health (SDoH), or implementation strategies. Data were charted and synthesized narratively, with implementation approaches categorized using the ERIC framework. RESULTS: Of 9,212 records identified, 242 studies met inclusion criteria. Telehealth was associated with comparable or improved access and clinical outcomes across primary care, specialty care, behavioral health, palliative care, and perioperative settings. Commonly addressed SDoH and demographic characteristics included age, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, geography, and digital access. While telehealth reduced barriers related to transportation, travel burden, and scheduling flexibility, disparities persisted for older adults, individuals with limited English proficiency, and those with low digital literacy or broadband access. Implementation strategies most frequently involved adapting interventions to local context, iterative evaluation, and clinician support, whereas financial and infrastructure-level strategies were less commonly reported. CONCLUSIONS: Extant literature suggests that telehealth has broad and firm support for its role in reducing access barriers and improving health outcomes across a wide range of conditions and populations. Therefore, future community-based approaches should focus on integrating telehealth into existing care delivery systems, tailoring interventions to the needs and preferences of different populations, and addressing structural barriers such as digital access, health literacy, and reimbursement to ensure sustained implementation.
Beyond Telemedicine Adoption: Assessing Telemedicine-Related Competencies Among Nurses in the United Arab Emirates.
Khalil H, Rammal A, Wahbea R … +5 more , Xavier RPR, Ahmed F, Bani-Issa W, Subu M, Al-Yateem N
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012148 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Telemedicine (TM) is increasingly integrated into health care delivery; however, its safe and effective implementation depends on the competency of the nursing workforce. Although previous research has examin...
BACKGROUND: Telemedicine (TM) is increasingly integrated into health care delivery; however, its safe and effective implementation depends on the competency of the nursing workforce. Although previous research has examined TM utilization among nurses, evidence regarding TM competency levels remains limited. PURPOSE: To assess TM-related competencies across four domains: awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and skills among nurses in the United Arab Emirates, and identify factors associated with each domain. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 434 nurses working in governmental health care facilities. TM competencies were measured using a structured online questionnaire incorporating demographic characteristics and the validated TM Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude, and Skills instrument. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate competency levels and their predictors. RESULTS: Nurses demonstrated high TM knowledge (81.44 ± 22.27) and positive attitudes (81.42 ± 10.27), with 77.0% and 92.4% of participants scoring high in these domains, respectively. Awareness (55.89 ± 26.17) and skills (57.11 ± 23.01) were more moderate, with only 28.6% and 24.4% of nurses scoring high in these domains, respectively. Interest in TM was a positive predictor of competency across all domains ( < 0.001). Postgraduate education and TM training were associated with higher awareness, while male gender, postgraduate qualification, and higher interest predicted improved skill scores. Regression models explained 8-16% of variance across competency domains. CONCLUSIONS: Although nurses demonstrated strong knowledge and positive attitudes toward TM, gaps remain in awareness and practical skills. Competency-based, skill-focused TM training is needed to support safe and sustainable integration into nursing practice.
Telemedicine and Digital Health Interventions for the Management of Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Clinical Outcomes.
Bertini A, Bahamondes M, Rojas J … +3 more , Puebla P, Rodriguez S, Quijada J
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012128 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In recent years, telemedicine and digital health interventions have emerged as promising strategies to support...
BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In recent years, telemedicine and digital health interventions have emerged as promising strategies to support lifestyle modification and the long-term management of cardiometabolic conditions. However, their clinical effectiveness in MetS remains heterogeneously reported. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for studies published between 2019 and 2024. Eligible studies included adults with MetS or its components and evaluated telemedicine or technology-enabled interventions, including mobile health (mhealth) applications, remote monitoring, wearable devices, or telecommunication-based care. Outcomes of interest included waist circumference (WC), glycemic parameters, blood pressure, and lipid profile. RESULTS: Twenty seven studies met inclusion criteria. Most interventions incorporated telemedicine components such as remote coaching, digital feedback, and continuous monitoring, frequently delivered through mobile platforms and wearable technologies. These interventions consistently resulted in reductions in WC, while modest but recurrent improvements were observed in glycemic control and blood pressure. Effects on lipid parameters were more variable, with more frequent improvements in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol than in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Higher intervention intensity and user engagement were associated with greater clinical benefits. CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine and digital health interventions represent effective adjuncts to conventional lifestyle management of MetS, particularly for central obesity and glycemic outcomes. Their ability to deliver scalable, personalized, and remotely supported care highlights their potential role in cardiometabolic prevention and management. Further research is needed to standardize intervention components and optimize long-term effectiveness.
A Constant State of Flux.
Doarn CR
Telemed J E Health · 2026 May · PMID 42002893 · Publisher ↗
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Impact of Telepharmacy on Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Boonpattharatthiti K, Ruenin G, Arsa P … +1 more , Dhippayom T
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41992949 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Pharmacists play a vital role in optimizing therapy and supporting glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Telepharmacy extends these services remotely. However, previous meta-analyses often...
BACKGROUND: Pharmacists play a vital role in optimizing therapy and supporting glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Telepharmacy extends these services remotely. However, previous meta-analyses often combined telepharmacy with other interventions, limiting the clarity of their conclusions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of telepharmacy on glycemic control in patients with T2D. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and EBSCO Open Dissertations were searched from inception to March 2026. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of telepharmacy in patients with T2D and reporting glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) outcomes were included. Study quality was assessed using the Risk of Bias (RoB) 2 tool. The mean difference (MD) in HbA1c with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the statistic. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. PROSPERO (CRD420251105397). RESULTS: Three RCTs (487 participants) were included. Telepharmacy interventions shared similar contexts, focusing on adherence improvement, lifestyle improvement, and diabetes education. Telepharmacy was associated with a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c compared with usual care (MD -0.64; 95% CI -0.93 to -0.35) with no heterogeneity observed ( 0%). All trials were rated as having "some concerns" in RoB. The certainty of the evidence was rated as low due to RoB and imprecision. CONCLUSIONS: Telepharmacy significantly improved glycemic control in patients with T2D. It may be considered a supportive strategy to enhance access to care and promote patient self-management, particularly among individuals facing barriers to health care access.
Exploring Telemedicine Needs and Barriers in Women with Osteoporosis: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Yilmaz Muluk S, Muluk E, Ugur S
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41980873 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Telemedicine (TM) offers opportunities for disease management; however, patient-centered expectations, priorities, and barriers remain insufficiently characterized. METHODS: A questionnaire assessed TM desire...
BACKGROUND: Telemedicine (TM) offers opportunities for disease management; however, patient-centered expectations, priorities, and barriers remain insufficiently characterized. METHODS: A questionnaire assessed TM desire, expected benefits, topic preferences, and perceived barriers among women with osteoporosis. A telemedicine need score (TNS) was constructed based on living alone, inability to drive, and the presence of chronic illness. Associations were examined using chi-square and nonparametric tests and logistic regression. RESULTS: Among 197 women (mean age 65.2 years), the most frequently reported health-care-system challenges were difficulty obtaining appointments and limited time with physicians. More than half of the participants wanted to use TM, and most believed it could improve quality of life. The most frequently requested topics were medication-related information overall, and fracture prevention and risk factors for older ones ( = 0.040; odds ratio [OR] = 2.30). Older adults reported more barriers (limited internet/device access ( < 0.001; OR = 3.96) and difficulty using devices ( = 0.003; OR = 2.61)), and they were less ready/confident to engage in TM services ( < 0.001). A high TNS was more common among older adults ( < 0.001; OR = 2.91). In multivariable analysis, age ≥ 65 years (OR = 2.79) and unmarried status (OR = 1.86) were independently associated with higher odds of high TM need. CONCLUSIONS: TM may address key gaps in osteoporosis care by supporting medication-related counseling and fracture-prevention education; however, age-related digital barriers may limit uptake. Osteoporosis-oriented TM programs should prioritize usability support and targeted education, particularly for adults aged ≥65 years.
Availability of Telehealth Services for Total Knee Arthroplasty at Orthopaedic Surgery Practices.
Tung WS, Dlott CC, Yousman LC … +5 more , Jain S, Bahel A, Kalia A, Das S, Wiznia DH
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41973650 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: For patients in lower socioeconomic groups who are unable to take time off from work, afford transportation to a clinic, or who live in rural locations, telehealth appointments have been found to improve acce...
BACKGROUND: For patients in lower socioeconomic groups who are unable to take time off from work, afford transportation to a clinic, or who live in rural locations, telehealth appointments have been found to improve access to care. Given how knee osteoarthritis disproportionately impacts patients in lower socioeconomic groups, we sought to evaluate the availability of telehealth appointments in orthopaedic surgery practices for patients with knee osteoarthritis with private or public (Medicaid) insurance. METHODS: A secret shopper methodology was utilized for a scenario designed to measure access to telehealth appointments for patients with knee osteoarthritis. The caller asked questions regarding the availability and wait times for telehealth and in-person appointments for both new visits and follow-up visits. Separate calls were made for private and public insurance. Descriptive characteristics and univariate tests were used for analysis. RESULTS: For initial new patient consults, 4.3% (13/304) of practices accepting private insurance offered telehealth and 3.6% (7/196) of practices accepting Medicaid offered telehealth. For follow-up visits, 39.8% (121/304) of practices accepting private insurance offered telehealth, and 40.3% (79/196) of practices accepting Medicaid offered telehealth. No differences were found in the availability of telehealth services for patients with Medicaid compared to patients with private insurance. DISCUSSION: Telehealth is an underutilized but viable option for patients who are considering knee arthroplasty, especially for follow-up appointments. Implementing telehealth follow-up appointments can be beneficial to patients and surgeons. Further research should examine the barriers that limit the availability of telehealth in arthroplasty clinics and how a lack of musculoskeletal telehealth services, especially for patients of lower socioeconomic status, may affect access to osteoarthritis care.
Telehealth Competency Evaluation Tools: A Scoping Review.
Garber K, Jones H, Chew C … +6 more , Moore J, Rutledge C, Boehning A, Sorenson M, Logan A, Chike-Harris K
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41973643 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Telehealth is an integral part of healthcare. Exposure to telehealth education is essential for both students and health care professionals to support its effective adoption and appropriate utilization. Thi...
INTRODUCTION: Telehealth is an integral part of healthcare. Exposure to telehealth education is essential for both students and health care professionals to support its effective adoption and appropriate utilization. This scoping review aims to explore whether and which telehealth competencies are being assessed and the methods used to evaluate them among health care professionals and students. METHODS: An electronic literature search was performed using six electronic databases between January 2024 and February 2025. We included studies where telehealth competencies or their components were evaluated by some type of tool (validated or researcher created). Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were used, and each article was evaluated by at least two reviewers. RESULTS: Out of 1,217 articles screened by title and abstract, 75 met inclusion criteria, with 36 of those selected for inclusion in this review. Participants were evaluated mostly by researcher-created tools that lacked psychometric properties or adapted nontelehealth evaluation tools. Few validated/reliable tools directly measured telehealth competencies. DISCUSSION: The results of this review illustrate there exists a lack of available validated/reliable evaluation tools to appraise telehealth competencies. Few studies included an evaluation of all telehealth competencies but rather focused only on communication and technology proficiency; none evaluated the appropriate use of telehealth or digital disparities. CONCLUSIONS: More research is needed to develop validated telehealth evaluation tools that can be used across disciplines and encompass all telehealth competencies. Additionally, true research methods are needed to adequately assess the impact of telehealth education on the performance and confidence of learners.
Utilization of Telemedicine Among Offshore Health Care Workers and Its Influencing Factors.
Netto G, Yew SQ
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Jul · PMID 41954045 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Telemedicine has become an essential tool for providing health care to offshore workers. Despite its advancements, there is still a lack of understanding about its optimal use and the factors affecting it a...
INTRODUCTION: Telemedicine has become an essential tool for providing health care to offshore workers. Despite its advancements, there is still a lack of understanding about its optimal use and the factors affecting it among health care providers in offshore settings. The objective of this work was to study and determine the level of telemedicine utilization among offshore health care workers and its associated factors in Malaysia. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, online questionnaires were distributed to health care workers involved in offshore medical services. The questionnaire includes sociodemographic information and the validated Malay version of the Telemedicine Acceptance Model (TAM) Questionnaire. A total of 73 offshore health care workers were recruited from a local company using universal sampling. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics as well as simple and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 65.8% of offshore health care workers reported using telemedicine in their practice. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that Chinese and Indian workers were significantly more likely to use telemedicine compared with Malay workers, with adjusted odds ratios of 32.11 ( = 0.045) and 33.51 ( = 0.037), respectively. Workers with a good attitude toward telemedicine had 11.84 times higher odds of utilization ( = 0.004), while those with high behavioral intention were 25.80 times more likely to use telemedicine compared with their counterparts with low behavioral intention ( < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A majority of offshore health care workers utilize telemedicine, with Chinese and Indian ethnicity, good attitude, and high behavioral intention significantly predicting its utilization.
Comparison of Emergency Department Attendance After Emergency Care Recommendations from Nurse and Online eHealth Self-Triage.
Curry EN, Miller NE, North F … +2 more , Thompson MC, Pecina JL
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Jul · PMID 41954037 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Online self-triage is a newer eHealth modality, and there is a paucity of research on patient adherence to self-triage recommendations. We evaluated patient compliance with online self-triage guidance to se...
INTRODUCTION: Online self-triage is a newer eHealth modality, and there is a paucity of research on patient adherence to self-triage recommendations. We evaluated patient compliance with online self-triage guidance to seek emergency care and compared to nurse-triage adherence rates. METHODS: We reviewed primary care empaneled patients who had either nurse phone triage or an online self-triage encounter that resulted in an emergency care recommendation between January 1, 2023, and November 30, 2024. Patients triaged for mood concerns, abdominal pain, chest pain, constipation, cough, and diarrhea were included. We reviewed whether patients had an emergency department visit within 24 h of their triage encounter. For self-triage encounters, we also examined whether patients called nurse triage within 24 h of their self-triage encounter. RESULTS: There were 689 self-triage and 2,385 nurse triage encounters with an emergency care endpoint. Adherence to the emergency care recommendation was substantially lower after self-triage (22%) than after nurse triage (61%). Patients who underwent nurse triage were significantly more likely to seek emergency care than those who self-triaged (odds ratio of 5.4 [95% CI: 4.5-6.6] < 0.001). Both male and female patients were less likely to follow emergency care recommendations after self-triage compared to nurse triage ( < 0.001). There were 258 patients with an emergency care endpoint from self-triage who chose to call nurse triage (median time between encounters of 16 min). Only 78 (30.2%) also received an endpoint recommendation for emergency care, and 73% of those patients sought emergency care within 24 h. DISCUSSION: Patient compliance with online self-triage recommendations to seek emergency care was poor and significantly less than nurse triage. Follow-up calls to nurse triage led to higher compliance. Health systems using online symptom checkers should consider employing mechanisms to follow up on emergency care recommendations. Further research should elucidate factors that contribute to patients' willingness to follow care recommendations.
Predictors of Unplanned Emergency Department Visits and Hospitalization Among Adults Accessing Virtual Outpatient Oncology Services in Queensland, Australia.
Walsan R, Harrison R, Braithwaite J … +9 more , Bhonagiri D, Moscova M, Manias E, Chauhan A, Vandyke A, Taylor N, Mumford V, Peprah P, Mitchell R
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Jul · PMID 41954034 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Virtual care has become an integral part of oncology services, following the COVID-19 pandemic. Its association with unplanned hospital service use, alongside sociodemographic and clinical factors, remains un...
BACKGROUND: Virtual care has become an integral part of oncology services, following the COVID-19 pandemic. Its association with unplanned hospital service use, alongside sociodemographic and clinical factors, remains unclear. METHOD: A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 39,099 adults with confirmed cancer diagnoses who accessed outpatient oncology services in Queensland between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2020 using linked administrative data on unplanned emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and cancer-related hospitalizations. Multivariable logistic regression examined associations between nonadmitted patient (NAP) virtual care and unplanned hospital service use. RESULTS: Among 39,099 patients accessing oncology services, 57.9% used at least one virtual care service. During one-year follow-up, 55.4% had an unplanned ED visit, 29.7% had an unplanned hospitalization, and 9.4% had an unplanned cancer-related hospitalization. Virtual care users had higher odds of unplanned ED visits (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.50-1.79) and hospitalizations (OR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.10-1.30), with no association for cancer-related admissions. Lower odds of unplanned service use were observed among females, individuals in the least disadvantaged areas, treated during lockdown, with poorly differentiated tumors, born outside Australia and with higher outpatient use. Presence of Charlson comorbidities, mental health conditions, and digestive or lung cancers (Vs breast cancer) were associated with higher odds of unplanned service use. Younger age and rural residence were linked to increased likelihood of unplanned ED visits but reduced likelihood of unplanned hospitalizations. Being on active treatment predicted unplanned hospitalizations only. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest an association between virtual care use and unplanned health service utilization among oncology patients. However, further research using more robust methodologies is needed to better understand this relationship and inform optimal integration of virtual care into routine oncology services.
Reliability, Accuracy, and Timeliness of Autism Telehealth Evaluations by Pediatricians.
Marsh K, Nguyen NT, Burton T … +1 more , Hicks S
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Jul · PMID 41954026 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can facilitate timely intervention and improved developmental outcomes, but many children wait over a year for ASD evaluation. Telehealth assessments by pediat...
OBJECTIVE: Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can facilitate timely intervention and improved developmental outcomes, but many children wait over a year for ASD evaluation. Telehealth assessments by pediatricians may address geographic and workforce barriers for children awaiting ASD evaluation. The goal of this study was to assess the reliability, accuracy, and timeliness of ASD telehealth evaluations by pediatricians. We hypothesized this approach would demonstrate reliability with specialist evaluation, concordance with in-person diagnosis, and wait-time reductions. METHODS: Thirty-two pediatricians received standardized training, completed fidelity/reliability testing, and utilized a novel evaluation model employing validated screening, parent-interview, and child observation tools. Interrater reliability of 32 pediatricians who administered 200 telehealth cases was assessed relative to blinded clinical supervisors. The diagnostic accuracy of 27 pediatricians who watched 19 video-recorded telehealth cases (494 total assessments) was compared to in-person diagnosis for the 19 children. Wait time for a telehealth assessment was compared to wait time for an in-person assessment for 2,483 children. RESULTS: There was 91.5% scoring agreement (95% CI: 0.893-0.932) between pediatricians and clinical supervisors ( < 0.001, K = 0.206) on 200 cases. On 19 video-recorded cases, there was 93.5% accuracy (PPV = 0.957; NPV = 0.811) between the in-person diagnosis and the 494 diagnoses provided by 27 pediatricians. The average wait time for 2,483 children who received telehealth evaluations (11.7 days) was shorter (W = 3.08 × 10, < 0.001) than the average in-person wait time (11.8 months). CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate that telehealth evaluations by general pediatricians offer a reliable, accurate, and timely approach to ASD assessment through a scalable, nationwide model.
Application of Telehealth and Artificial Intelligence in Military Health Care: A Promising Combination for the Future.
Scheid PL, Schvach H, Scheid SE
Telemed J E Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 41954025 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Military and peace-support operations increasingly depend on medical capability delivered under difficult circumstances: distance, limited number of specialists, disrupted connectivity, and mass-casualty risk...
BACKGROUND: Military and peace-support operations increasingly depend on medical capability delivered under difficult circumstances: distance, limited number of specialists, disrupted connectivity, and mass-casualty risk. Consequently, military health care systems operate during missions in uniquely constrained and high-risk environments, ranging from remote bases and naval platforms to active combat zones and humanitarian missions. These mission contexts demand rapid, reliable, and scalable medical solutions that can function despite limited personnel, infrastructure, and connectivity. METHOD: By reviewing existing literature and considering several different programs for military health care using telehealth and artificial intelligence (AI), the key performance indicators are explored to evaluate the synergy of telehealth and AI, following its implementation. RESULTS: Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of modern health care and holds the promise of increasing access to (special) health care without moving the patient but the information. Telehealth also enables continuity of care on missions and has already demonstrated its value in extending medical expertise across distance, while AI is evolving rapidly as a powerful enabler of decision support, automation, and predictive analytics in the medical field. As AI capabilities mature, several medical specialties may benefit, particularly in medical imaging, through faster triage, more consistent interpretation, and better prioritization of scarce specialist time. It also contributes to "decision support "while making proposals based on big data, machine learning and AI (e.g., in a Trauma registry). Telehealth provides the communication backbone that preserves these interactions and enables safe use of AI-enabled support in dispersed operations. CONCLUSIONS: The convergence of telehealth and AI in military health care will lead to a strategic capability with increased efficiency and enhance readiness, resilience, access to medical care, and quality of care for military personnel, including faster and more accurate diagnoses and better patient monitoring. Both technologies (AI and telehealth) are expected to continue to advance and play an even larger role in optimizing health care in the military.
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