TELEMEDICINE AS A RESPONSE TO INEQUALITIES IN ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE

Olga Sławatyniec; Wiktoria Sobieraj; Julia Pająk; Anna Kamosińska

doi:10.31435/ijitss.1(49).2026.5339

Authors

Olga Sławatyniec MD, 4th Military Clinical Hospital with Polyclinic, Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0373-1588
Wiktoria Sobieraj MD, Lower Silesian Center for Oncology, Pulmonology and Hematology, Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-5412-6302
Julia Pająk MD, 4th Military Clinical Hospital with Polyclinic, Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0882-9365
Anna Kamosińska MD, 4th Military Clinical Hospital with Polyclinic, Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0005-0718-2112

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.1(49).2026.5339

Keywords:

Telemedicine, e-Health, COVID-19, Telehealth, Health Inequalities, Health Equity

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of telemedicine on reducing healthcare inequalities. The analysis was based on a literature review, that included reports from World Health Organization, OECD publications, and national studies on e-health, telemedicine, and the social determinants of health.

The results indicate that telemedicine significantly improves access to healthcare services, reduces geographical barriers, and enhances the overall efficiency of healthcare system. At the same time, it carries the risk of secondary digital exclusion, particularly among older adults and populations with low levels of digital literacy. These findings highlight the importance of public policy and health education in addressing these challenges.

The study concluded that widespread implementation of telemedicine can contribute to reducing healthcare inequalities, provided appropriate infrastructure and educational support. Recommendations include integrating telemedicine with traditional care, adapting legal regulations, and continuously monitoring its impact on different social groups. With appropriate support, telemedicine has the potential to improve healthcare accessibility and equity, making it a valuable tool for modern healthcare systems.

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