Telemedicine in Public Health: Analyzing Challenges and Future Directions for Sustainable Implementation

Abstract

Background: Telemedicine has emerged as a pivotal solution in healthcare delivery, leveraging information and communication technologies to overcome geographical barriers between healthcare providers and patients. This study reviews the evolution, current applications, and future trends of telemedicine, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has intensified the demand for remote healthcare services.

Methods: Employing a systematic literature review methodology, we analyzed existing research on various telemedicine communication technologies, including wireless and internet-based systems.

Results: The findings reveal that while telemedicine significantly reduces healthcare costs and enhances accessibility, several challenges persist, including standardization of medical data exchange, data security, and patient safety associated with wearable devices. Notably, our review underscores the heterogeneity in service delivery between in-person and telemedicine consultations, indicating that telemedicine can effectively substitute traditional consultations in specific contexts, such as pediatric genetic care. Moreover, the need for robust communication infrastructure and the integration of artificial intelligence in telemedicine were identified as critical for future advancements.

Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights the necessity for continued research into telemedicine technologies and the development of standardized protocols to facilitate their efficient implementation in public health. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for optimizing telemedicine's role in enhancing healthcare delivery and ensuring patient safety.