Evaluating the Impact of Remote Patient Examinations: A Systematic Review of Telehealth Outcomes

  • Yaseer Abdullah Saleh Al abass et. al
Keywords: Remote Patient Examination, Telehealth, Telemedicine, Patient Outcomes, Healthcare Quality, Patient Satisfaction, Treatment Efficacy, Health Equity

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of remote patient examinations on healthcare outcomes, focusing on diagnostic accuracy, patient satisfaction, and treatment efficacy. With telemedicine's rapid expansion, understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing patient care and informing healthcare policies.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, targeting studies published from 2016 onward. Inclusion criteria were studies that examined patient outcomes in remote examination contexts, such as telemedicine and telehealth consultations. Quality assessments of the included studies were performed using PRISMA guidelines to ensure rigorous evaluation.

Results: The review identified consistent benefits of remote examinations in terms of patient satisfaction and accessibility, with many studies reporting equivalent patient outcomes compared to in-person consultations. However, limitations were noted in diagnostic accuracy for certain conditions, and challenges included technology reliability, access disparities, and limitations in conducting physical assessments remotely.

Conclusion: Remote patient examinations present a promising alternative to traditional care, with clear benefits for accessibility and convenience. However, further research is needed to address diagnostic limitations and ensure equitable access to telehealth services. These findings underscore the need for robust telemedicine infrastructure and training to maximize the potential of remote examinations in healthcare delivery.

Published
2024-02-04
Section
Regular Issue