Ebert D, Walton M, Byrne VE
… +2 more, Nelson AM, Sargsyan A
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41778279
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INTRODUCTION: Performance of medical procedures in spaceflight beyond low Earth orbit (LEO) requires novel solutions to replace real-time ground support, which is hampered by growing communication latencies as distance f...INTRODUCTION: Performance of medical procedures in spaceflight beyond low Earth orbit (LEO) requires novel solutions to replace real-time ground support, which is hampered by growing communication latencies as distance from Earth increases. The Autonomous Medical Officer Support (AMOS) Software Technology Demonstrations on the International Space Station (ISS) trialed a novel software tool that shifts the emphasis from pre-flight training and real-time remote guidance (current ISS paradigm) to a new standard of multidimensional in-flight just-in-time instruction. The AMOS platform is a skill management tool for all mission phases and currently features comprehensive training and guidance modules for urinary bladder and renal ultrasound examinations. METHODS: Using the AMOS software, two ISS crewmembers performed in-flight bladder and kidney ultrasound examinations with no guidance from the ground and with no pre-flight exposure to the software ( = 2 sessions). Images were graded for clinical quality using a strict evaluation rubric. Software use patterns were recorded, and participants provided both structured and free response feedback. RESULTS: Clinically adequate images were obtained for all but one of the attempted views. Participants rated AMOS as highly useable and primarily used linear navigation. CONCLUSION: Variability in subject anatomy, operator experience, and operator receptiveness to instruction during autonomous examinations is a persistent but manageable limitation. Despite these challenges, here we report the first successful demonstrations of autonomous imaging activities in the operational setting of spaceflight, validating this autonomous guidance proof-of-concept.
Selesner L, Han XY, Vaughn CR
… +6 more, Krakauer K, Nacharaju D, Nikolian V, Byrd E, Marcin JP, Jafri M
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41757555
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PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted health care worldwide. We evaluated telemedicine utilization in a pediatric surgery ambulatory setting before and during the pandemic to assess its impact on surgical access. METH...PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted health care worldwide. We evaluated telemedicine utilization in a pediatric surgery ambulatory setting before and during the pandemic to assess its impact on surgical access. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective single-center cohort study of pediatric surgery ambulatory visits from 2019 to 2021. Visit modality, type, and complexity were collected. Socioeconomic and geographic variables included Community Needs Index (CNI) and United States Department of Agriculture rural-urban continuum codes. Chi-square, tests, and multivariable logistic regression were performed. RESULTS: Among 4,106 visits, monthly volume declined during the pandemic (median 192 vs. 151, = 0.03), with fewer new patients (26% vs. 30%, = 0.04). Telemedicine increased (46% vs. 3.6%, < 0.001), with higher adoption among rural patients (61% vs. 43%, < 0.001). The proportion of complex visits increased (high complexity: 13-35%, < 0.001; highest complexity: 1-9%, < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, utilization increased with rural residence (odds ratios [OR] 1.80, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.44-2.25). Utilization was lower among higher-income households (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.86-0.94) and higher-deprivation communities (CNI OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.61-0.83; all < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine preserved access to pediatric surgical care during the pandemic, with increased use among rural patients. Lower utilization among both higher-income and higher-deprivation groups highlights complex inequities in access.
Hoyt-Austin A, Hoffman KR, Miller IT
… +7 more, Rosenthal JL, Tancredi DJ, Chantry CJ, Underwood MA, Marcin JP, Kuhn-Riordon K, Kair LR
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41706487
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OBJECTIVE: Human milk supports optimal health outcomes for infants in the neonatal intensive care unit; however, expressing milk is impacted by separation, stress, and time. We examined the impact of using videoconferenc...OBJECTIVE: Human milk supports optimal health outcomes for infants in the neonatal intensive care unit; however, expressing milk is impacted by separation, stress, and time. We examined the impact of using videoconferencing with one's infant while expressing milk on the volume, efficiency, human milk macronutrient content, and the milk expression experience. METHODS: In this randomized controlled crossover trial (NCT03957941), mothers of premature infants expressed milk three times with videoconferencing and three times without. Milk volumes and expression time were self-recorded. Experience was assessed with the Breast Milk Expression Personal Experience (BMEE) subscale. Milk samples were analyzed using the Miris Human Milk Analyzer™. Data were analyzed using a panel data fixed-effects model to estimate within-person mean differences (MDs) between study arms in human milk volume, efficiency, macronutrient content, and BMEE scores. RESULTS: A total of 39 women were enrolled in the study, 28 provided milk volume and efficiency data, 26 completed BMEE scores, and 24 provided milk samples. Videoconferencing improved the milk expression experience, with mean BMEE subscale scores higher with videoconferencing (MD 0.10; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02, 0.18; = 0.01). There was no difference in milk volume (MD -2.5 mL; CI: -11.9, 6.9; = 0.6) nor efficiency (MD 0.3 mL/min; CI: -0.4, 0.9; = 0.4). CONCLUSIONS: Videoconferencing with one's hospitalized premature infant improves the pumping experience. However, the use of videoconferencing was not associated with significant effects on human milk expression nor efficiency.
Kuiper LB, Watson AJ, Eckerson AC
… +6 more, Lima FA, Lin YY, Davis T, Trammell V, Nahar VK, Saurabh C
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41706444
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BACKGROUND: Technological advancements and legislation have led to the widespread use of electronic health records (EHRs) in the 21st century. Along with EHR implementation came improved health care quality, continuity o...BACKGROUND: Technological advancements and legislation have led to the widespread use of electronic health records (EHRs) in the 21st century. Along with EHR implementation came improved health care quality, continuity of care, and data availability. However, EHRs are not without drawbacks. Physician burnout rates are rising, and EHRs are among the top causative factors. The consequences of burnout can offset the benefits of EHRs, prompting the health care community to seek solutions for the burnout epidemic. One proposed solution is to use artificial intelligence (AI) scribes, which utilize voice-recognition software to transcribe patient-physician interactions in real time, resulting in comprehensive documentation of the encounter. Since AI technology is in its infancy, limited research is available regarding provider perceptions and the real-world use of AI scribes. This study aimed to evaluate health care providers' experiences with documentation burden and perceived quality of patient interactions while using an AI scribe in a telehealth setting. METHODS: Participants used the AI scribe exclusively during telehealth encounters. Provider attitudes and experiences were measured across the 3-month pilot period to assess changes in documentation burden, workflow efficiency, satisfaction, and perceived impact on patient interaction quality. RESULTS: Study results revealed that three-fifths of the providers experienced decreased burnout attributed to the AI scribe, and two-thirds of the providers reported enhanced satisfaction with documentation time and the time spent engaging with patients. CONCLUSION: Given our study results and the promising direction of AI technology, the use of AI scribes in the telehealth setting has the potential to mitigate burnout, improve the provider-patient relationship, and help restore patient-centered care.
Laganà V, Di Lorenzo R, Torchia G
… +15 more, Buonocore J, Iaccino N, Canino G, Colao R, Caravona N, Bruno Bossio R, Galati F, Lupo M, Insardà P, Frontera G, Abate F, Arcudi L, Bernardi MP, Gambardella A, Arabia G
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41684300
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BACKGROUND: Telemedicine has gained increasing relevance as an innovative approach to support continuity of care for individuals with cognitive impairment. However, evidence regarding usability and short-term clinical ef...BACKGROUND: Telemedicine has gained increasing relevance as an innovative approach to support continuity of care for individuals with cognitive impairment. However, evidence regarding usability and short-term clinical effectiveness in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is still limited. The present study aimed to assess the usability, feasibility, and preliminary clinical efficacy of a dedicated telemedicine platform integrating cognitive telerehabilitation and teleconsultation services for individuals with aMCI and their caregivers. METHODS: A multicenter prospective study was conducted across 10 Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementia in the Calabria region, Italy. Subjects with aMCI (aged 50-80 years) and their caregivers were enrolled and participated in a 4-week intervention. The program included asynchronous tablet-based cognitive telerehabilitation and scheduled teleconsultations providing educational and psychological support. Usability was evaluated using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Secondary outcomes included adherence, satisfaction, changes in neuropsychological measures, and caregiver burden, assessed before and after the intervention. RESULTS: A total of 285 participants (144 patients, 141 caregivers) were enrolled, and 267 completed the study (retention rate: 93.6%). The overall mean SUS score was 79.03 ± 16.89, indicating good-to-excellent usability across patients, caregivers, and health care professionals. Significant improvements were observed in global cognition, episodic memory, disease insight, anxiety, depressive symptoms, neuropsychiatric manifestations, and caregiver burden (all < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This telemedicine platform demonstrated high usability, strong adherence, and positive clinical effects after a short intervention period. These findings support the feasibility and potential value of digital telerehabilitation solutions for individuals with aMCI and their caregivers.
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 May · PMID 41668482
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OBJECTIVE: Although public interest in telemedicine is growing, limited research has examined the necessary conditions for its usage. Therefore, this study aims to identify these conditions in Japan and China. METHODS: A...OBJECTIVE: Although public interest in telemedicine is growing, limited research has examined the necessary conditions for its usage. Therefore, this study aims to identify these conditions in Japan and China. METHODS: A self-developed questionnaire was administered between 2022 and 2023, yielding 787 valid responses in Japan and 840 in China. In addition, 241 Japanese and 194 Chinese supplemental responses were collected in 2025. Factor analysis and necessary condition analysis (NCA) were applied. RESULTS: Based on the initial samples, eight factors were extracted: cost and accessibility, social influence, safety and reliability, adaptive readiness, technology confidence, perceived data security, facilitating conditions, and perceived usefulness. NCA revealed cross-national differences. Japanese participants mainly regarded perceived usefulness ( = 0.12-0.31) and facilitating conditions ( = 0.15-0.29) as necessary conditions, whereas Chinese participants perceived a broader set of prerequisites. Subgroup analyses further indicated that safety and reliability were the most critical necessary conditions for experienced users in both countries (Japan: = 0.44; China: = 0.28). Hierarchical clustering analysis further revealed three bottleneck trajectories of constraints: gradual-bottleneck users (progressive constraints), high-bottleneck users (sudden demand surges), and early-bottleneck users (persistent initial constraints). Crucially, the supplemental samples further confirmed the reliability and validity of the eight-factor structure and the temporal consistency of the necessary conditions for sustained usage. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight the need for tailored telemedicine strategies. In particular, maintaining safety and reliability represents a nonnegotiable prerequisite for sustained telemedicine usage in both countries. The developed instrument, combined with NCA, offers a transferable approach for identifying constraints and developing more adaptive and equitable telemedicine strategies.
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 May · PMID 41641730
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PURPOSE: This study analyzed the intention to use military telemental health services and its influencing factors, based on an integrated theoretical framework combining the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Techno...PURPOSE: This study analyzed the intention to use military telemental health services and its influencing factors, based on an integrated theoretical framework combining the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology and the Health Belief Model. METHODS: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected through an online survey conducted over a 4-week period from July 9 to August 8, 2025. RESULTS: The mean intention-to-use score, measured on a 7-point Likert scale, was 4.57 (±1.24), indicating a relatively positive level. Intention to use was significantly higher among established patients than new patients. In the multiple regression analysis, social influence and number of visits were identified as statistically significant factors associated with intention to use. CONCLUSIONS: External factors, such as social influence and prior medical experience, were more strongly associated with intention to use than with individual perceptions of service utilization. These results indicate the need for organizations to foster positive awareness of telemental health services. Furthermore, it is essential to address potential barriers related to resources, information, and security in advance. This study will serve as a foundation for system development and for future research on intention to use military telemental health.
Lemos MJ, Queiroz LF, Diniz AF
… +5 more, Dos Santos PL, da Silva CML, Gomide PO, Ferraz J, Novellino AMM
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 May · PMID 41641710
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INTRODUCTION: This meta-analysis aims to systematically review and synthesize the available evidence comparing telehealth and in-person follow-up after gynecological surgeries, focusing on clinical outcomes related to sa...INTRODUCTION: This meta-analysis aims to systematically review and synthesize the available evidence comparing telehealth and in-person follow-up after gynecological surgeries, focusing on clinical outcomes related to safety, patient satisfaction, and healthcare utilization. METHODS: A systematic search across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, covering publications from their inception up to October 2025. Studies were selected if they reported outcomes including patient satisfaction measured by the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18), incidence of urinary tract infection (UTI), unplanned healthcare visits, and hospitalizations. Seven randomized controlled trials were included, resulting in a total of 692 patients. Data were assessed using Cochrane's RoB 2 tool and GRADE, with random-effects models applied for statistical analyses. RESULTS: The analysis revealed higher scores for telehealth in interpersonal manner (MD = 0.19) and time spent with providers (MD = 0.26), while other PSQ-18 domains showed no significant differences. Postoperative complications, including UTI unplanned visits, phone calls, hospitalizations, and emergency care access, were similar between telehealth and in-person follow-up. Sensitivity analysis and quality assessment (using RoB 2 and GRADE) indicated a critical risk of bias and low certainty of evidence. CONCLUSION: Telehealth follow-up after gynecological surgery is as safe as in-person care, with similar complication rates and unplanned healthcare utilization. It also improves patient satisfaction, adherence, and cost efficiency, making it a viable, resource-effective alternative for postoperative care.
Shao CC, McLeod MC, Lawler LE
… +3 more, Wallace EL, Chu DI, Reddy S
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41631376
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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate how patient characteristics are associated with telemedicine visit modality (video, phone, or converted from video to phone) and patient satisfaction, to better understand the digital divide in tel...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate how patient characteristics are associated with telemedicine visit modality (video, phone, or converted from video to phone) and patient satisfaction, to better understand the digital divide in telemedicine. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary care center during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic (March-October 2020). Adult patients (≥18 years) who completed a telemedicine satisfaction survey following a visit during the study period were included. Visit modality was classified as video, phone, or converted (scheduled as video but completed as phone). Sociodemographic characteristics and broadband access data (by ZIP code and county) were linked to patient records. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of visit conversion and satisfaction. RESULTS: Of 30,578 patients surveyed, 17,859 (58%) responded. The median age was 59 years; 63% were female, and 74% were White. Visit modalities included video (43%), phone (39%), and converted (18%). Conversion from video to phone was significantly associated with older age, Medicare insurance, lower income, and reduced broadband access. Patient satisfaction was highest for video visits, followed by phone, and lowest for converted visits ( < 0.0001). Satisfaction declined with increasing age for phone and converted visits, but not for video visits. A previsit phone call was consistently associated with higher satisfaction across all modalities. CONCLUSIONS: Conversion from video to phone visits is a marker of digital access barriers and is associated with reduced patient satisfaction. Interventions such as previsit support calls should be used to improve patient experiences and help mitigate disparities in telemedicine access and outcomes. Inclusion of phone visits as a form of telemedicine recognized and reimbursed by insurance companies will allow for our most vulnerable patients to have equitable access to the health care system.
Predmore Z, Qureshi N, Schlang D
… +1 more, Quigley DD
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 May · PMID 41630691
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BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the integration of telehealth into routine health care, especially within Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Few studies have compared patient experiences and/or com...BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the integration of telehealth into routine health care, especially within Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Few studies have compared patient experiences and/or comments about telehealth versus in-person visits. METHODS: We compared patient comments about primary care telehealth versus in-person visits. We examined 3,795 comments from patient experience surveys (1,457 telehealth and 2,338 in-person) collected electronically between April 2023 and March 2024 by a large Southern California FQHC. We coded comment valence, content, and actionability. RESULTS: Patient comments about telehealth visits were shorter (mean = 13 words) than comments about in-person visits (mean = 30 words) and more positive (85% versus 81%, respectively). Comments about telehealth visits were also less likely to mention specific provider or staff behaviors, resulting in fewer actionable comments: 7% of comments about telehealth and 12% about in-person visits were deemed actionable. Most comments about telehealth and in-person visits focused on overall visit experience, rather than specific aspects of care. References to care setting and staff roles were minimal, particularly in telehealth comments. CONCLUSION: While telehealth visits are generally well-received, patient comments about telehealth provide less detail and contain less actionable information compared to comments about in-person visits. The proportion of actionable comments was considerably lower than prior studies (∼30%). This may pose challenges to using comments to improve telehealth. Understanding differences in how patients respond to the same open-ended patient experience survey question about their telehealth versus in-person visit is critical for optimizing telehealth care delivery and addressing patient needs in under-resourced settings.
Albalawi IAS, AlBattal NZ, Saleh NA
… +5 more, Alkhunein JS, Abumelha AF, AlMazyad YN, Alhazmi B, Alfawzan M
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 May · PMID 41609528
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INTRODUCTION: Telehealth has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare delivery, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery, telehealth facilitates patien...INTRODUCTION: Telehealth has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare delivery, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery, telehealth facilitates patient consultations, follow-up visits, and postoperative care, especially for those in remote areas. However, evaluating its usability and patient satisfaction remains essential to guide future implementation. This study aimed to assess the usability of telehealth services and measure patient perceptions in plastic surgery clinics at a tertiary healthcare center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2024 and May 2025 at King Abdulaziz Medical City. After receiving ethical approval (IRB: NRC23R/515/09), eligible patients who had attended at least one online plastic surgery clinic consultation were contacted by phone and invited to participate. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms. The survey included demographic questions and the validated Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ), which covers seven domains. Responses were rated on a 7-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using RStudio; nonparametric tests and multivariable linear regression were performed to identify predictors of usability. RESULTS: A total of 93 participants completed the survey. Most respondents were female (67.7%), aged between 29-39 and 51-61 years. Overall, TUQ scores indicated high usability, with the highest medians in usefulness, ease of use, and interface quality (median = 7.0). Lower scores were observed in the reliability subscale (median = 6.0). Educational level significantly influenced ease-of-use and reliability scores, while visit type (e.g., craniofacial vs. breast reconstruction) impacted interaction quality. No significant predictors were identified for the overall TUQ score. CONCLUSION: Telehealth services in plastic surgery were perceived positively across all domains of usability. While demographic factors such as education influenced specific subscales, the overall experience was favorable. Telehealth presents a viable, efficient, and patient-satisfying alternative for surgical follow-up, with potential for broader integration in clinical practice.
Agustin R, Garber K, Barthold G
… +1 more, Gustin T
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 May · PMID 41579121
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BACKGROUND: Telehealth has expanded access to health care services, yet its effectiveness relies heavily on access to communication technology, particularly cellphones. People experiencing homelessness (PEH) face signifi...BACKGROUND: Telehealth has expanded access to health care services, yet its effectiveness relies heavily on access to communication technology, particularly cellphones. People experiencing homelessness (PEH) face significant barriers to technological access, which may limit their ability to engage in telehealth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This pilot study evaluated cellphone access and barriers to use for telehealth among sheltered and unsheltered PEH at free community clinics in Virginia Beach, Virginia, through an orally administered survey. Differences in the use of telehealth between government-issued cellphone users and nongovernment-issued cellphone users in this population were examined, as well as differences in perceived barriers to cellphone access and telehealth utilization between sheltered PEH and unsheltered PEH. RESULTS: Of the 74 participants, 53% reported being sheltered PEH and 47% were unsheltered. Of the sheltered PEH, 97% reported having a cellphone, whereas only 74% of the unsheltered PEH reported having one. Significant barriers to utilization included the cost of devices ( = 0.013), inability to charge phones ( = 0.048), and a lack of mobile data ( < 0.001). Nongovernment cellphone users were more likely to use their cellphones for audio-only telehealth than government cellphone users. The study findings provide insights but, given sample size, they cannot be generalized. CONCLUSION: PEH may have access to a cellphone; however, utilization for telehealth may be limited due to cost and technological barriers, as well as prioritization of texting and phone calls to preserve data. Overcoming these barriers is crucial to making telehealth an equitable health care tool for PEH.
Sampsel D, Armitage N, Cole L
… +5 more, Trass M, King S, Utomi C, Witt S, Walker S
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41468166
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BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are common in both the general population and the Veteran population. More than half of all visits at Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers are focused on an MSK condition, wi...BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are common in both the general population and the Veteran population. More than half of all visits at Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers are focused on an MSK condition, with over 90% of all Veterans having at least one MSK disability that is directly linked to their military service. At the Veterans Affair Medical Center, Veterans' vast age span, the preferred care delivery and lifestyle demands were all considered when establishing a new 24-hour accessible MSK program that utilized telehealth as the delivery modality. The virtual program consisted of a four-phased home-based online fitness program, health coach coordinators, and the other complimentary integrated health offerings. METHODS: Pain reduction and health improvement outcomes derived in the program were obtained through an Institutional Review Board approved retrospective chart review. A retrospective chart review was completed on 146 charts. to evaluate the impact the telehealth-enabled program had on the patients. RESULTS: Results indicated that there were benefits derived from the program with pain reduction and increased activities that impact quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: The Veterans' own self-disclosures were also reported in the chart review. Both objective and quantifiable data indicated that telehealth is an excellent enabling modality that allowed Veterans of all ages to partake in fitness programs at work, at home, and/or in remote locations. The positive trend in pain reduction and improved health added to the justification for sustainment of this telehealth program after the VA and Department of Defense Joint Incentive Funding concluded.
Valencia-Arias A, Gallegos A, Rodríguez-Correa PA
… +3 more, Jaramillo Arica PS, La Rosa Huertas LDC, Valencia J
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41468022
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BACKGROUND: The increasing use of telemedicine has transformed communication between patients, physicians, and other health professionals through virtual platforms, offering new possibilities for healthcare delivery and...BACKGROUND: The increasing use of telemedicine has transformed communication between patients, physicians, and other health professionals through virtual platforms, offering new possibilities for healthcare delivery and accessibility. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the acceptance of telemedicine services among women in Peru by applying an extended and conceptually adapted unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. METHODS: A quantitative correlational design was used, involving a survey of 503 Peruvian women. Data were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique with SmartPLS 4 software. The analysis included a measurement model to assess convergent and discriminant validity of the constructs, followed by a structural model to test the proposed hypotheses. RESULTS: Findings revealed that performance expectancy, social influence, effort expectancy, and perceived safety are the most influential factors affecting women's intention to use telemedicine services. CONCLUSIONS: From a theoretical perspective, this study contributes to understanding telemedicine adoption among Peruvian women by validating the relevance and reliability of the extended UTAUT model in this context. Practically, the results provide valuable insights for designing public policies and training programs to promote the use of telemedicine in Peru.
Sakallı Kani A, Soylu E, Süleyman A
… +5 more, Dural U, Kalaça B, Nursaçan AF, Çelik AG, Akvardar Y
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41467959
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INTRODUCTION: Videoconference-based telepsychiatry (VBT) is a widely used method in developed countries. However, it is not routinely used in public hospitals in Türkiye. This study aimed to investigate Turkish psychiatr...INTRODUCTION: Videoconference-based telepsychiatry (VBT) is a widely used method in developed countries. However, it is not routinely used in public hospitals in Türkiye. This study aimed to investigate Turkish psychiatric patients' awareness, experiences, attitudes, expectations, and concerns regarding VBT and to psychometrically validate a newly developed scale assessing attitudes toward VBT. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 769 psychiatric outpatients aged 18-65 years at Marmara University Pendik Research and Training Hospital. Sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics, technological resources, knowledge and use of telepsychiatry, and attitudes toward telepsychiatry were assessed. A 24-item Attitude Toward Telepsychiatry Scale was developed and psychometrically tested through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. RESULTS: Only 32.4% of patients had knowledge of telepsychiatry, and 6.2% had experience with online psychiatric sessions. Awareness and use were associated with younger age, higher education, and greater access to technological resources. The new scale showed a four-factor structure: perceived effectiveness, usefulness, accessibility, and worries about privacy, with good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). Patients generally reported positive attitudes toward VBT, recognizing its potential benefits for accessibility and convenience. However, substantial concerns remained regarding confidentiality and technical reliability. Knowledge and experience with telepsychiatry were negatively associated with attitude scores, suggesting potential unfamiliarity-based skepticism. DISCUSSION: Despite low utilization, Turkish psychiatric patients exhibited an overall favorable perspective toward telepsychiatry. Addressing privacy and infrastructure concerns and raising public awareness could facilitate the integration of telepsychiatry into Türkiye's public health care system. The developed scale demonstrated strong psychometric properties and offers a valuable tool for future research.
Riazi F, Green C, Smalls S
… +9 more, Hunter A, Diaz Munoz D, Fuseau I, Giardina M, Herrera J, Idlett R, Khatun U, Kutscher E, Weiss JJ
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41449496
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BACKGROUND: Achieving hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination goals requires a test and treat approach in high-prevalence settings. Clients admitted to inpatient substance use treatment programs (ISUTPs) have a high burden o...BACKGROUND: Achieving hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination goals requires a test and treat approach in high-prevalence settings. Clients admitted to inpatient substance use treatment programs (ISUTPs) have a high burden of HCV infection, yet routine screening and treatment are not standard practice in these settings. METHODS: A telehealth model of HCV treatment was implemented at four ISUTPs (spokes) in partnership with a primary care program (hub) with the goal of starting clients on treatment at the ISUTP. Continuous process evaluation identified implementation barriers, which were addressed through the introduction of a community health worker (CHW) model of telehealth facilitation, cocredentialing of the CHW at spoke sites, and partnership with the onsite pharmacy at the hub. RESULTS: Over the course of 3 years, 164 clients completed an initial telehealth visit at the ISUTP. Among those evaluated, 80% reported recent intravenous drug use, and 51% were unhoused. One hundred and seven (65%) initiated HCV treatment, and 44 (41%) had sustained virologic response (SVR) at 12 weeks posttreatment. As the model of care was refined, more patients started on treatment while at the ISUTP. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate the feasibility of a test and treat approach for HCV in ISUTPs through a facilitated telehealth model. While documented SVR rates were low compared to other studies, this strategy nonetheless has the potential to reduce HCV transmission at a population level. Future efforts should focus on expanding this model and minimizing loss to follow-up postdischarge from the ISUTP.
Worster B, Kaminoff L, Mason A
… +8 more, Pontiggia L, Madden K, Kemp M, Guth A, Diamond N, Herens A, Rising K, Kates J
Telemed J E Health
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41449190
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BACKGROUND: Dementia is a leading cause of death and disability among older adults, with increasing caregiver and health care burdens. Palliative care (PC) can improve quality of life (QOL) and reduce nonbeneficial care,...BACKGROUND: Dementia is a leading cause of death and disability among older adults, with increasing caregiver and health care burdens. Palliative care (PC) can improve quality of life (QOL) and reduce nonbeneficial care, yet persons living with dementia (PLWD) remain underserved. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary impact of a Telehealth-Facilitated Integrated Palliative Care (TIPC) model for PLWD and their caregivers. METHODS: A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted with 51 PLWD and caregivers (22 intervention, 19 control). The intervention included up to two telehealth visits guided by the Serious Illness Conversation Guide. Outcomes included health care utilization, QOL, and caregiver burden at baseline and up to 12 months. RESULTS: The intervention group had significantly fewer emergency department visits and hospitalizations but no differences in QOL or caregiver burden. CONCLUSION: The TIPC model is feasible and may reduce health care utilization among PLWD; larger studies are warranted.