DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF PRIMARY CARE: TELEMEDICINE APPLICATIONS, AMBIENT AI INTEGRATION, AND SOCIAL EQUITY CHALLENGES – A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Filip Kopacki; Daniel Jaskot; Weronika Szczeblewska; Jakub Świech; Marta Kamrowska; Katarzyna Apanasewicz; Jakub Marzec; Natalia Kita; Natalia Sztenc; Patrycja Broniszewska

doi:10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5465

Authors

Filip Kopacki University Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7897-8222
Daniel Jaskot Independent Public Provincial Integrated Hospital in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0004-8678-9838
Weronika Szczeblewska Independent Public Provincial Integrated Hospital in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3956-622X
Jakub Świech University Clinical Hospital no. 2, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1732-4162
Marta Kamrowska University Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1570-0144
Katarzyna Apanasewicz J. Strus Multidisciplinary Municipal Hospital in Poznań, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0765-5398
Jakub Marzec University Clinical Hospital No. 1 of Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8336-7260
Natalia Kita University Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2277-6198
Natalia Sztenc Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, West Pomerania, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0006-4307-7958
Patrycja Broniszewska University Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6577-307X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5465

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence, Chronic Disease Management, Healthcare Accessibility, Primary Care, Telehealth, Telemedicine

Abstract

Telemedicine has emerged as an important component of modern healthcare systems, particularly within primary care settings where accessibility and continuity of care are essential. The aim of this study was to review the current literature regarding the applications, benefits, and challenges associated with telemedicine in primary healthcare.

A narrative literature review was conducted using major scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Relevant peer-reviewed articles published in English were identified and analyzed to determine key developments in telemedicine implementation.

The findings indicate that telemedicine has significantly improved access to healthcare services, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. It has also enhanced chronic disease management, including conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, through remote monitoring and digital consultations. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and ambient clinical intelligence systems may further support clinical decision-making and automate medical documentation in primary care.

Despite these advantages, several challenges remain, including technological barriers, digital literacy gaps, concerns regarding data security and privacy, and limitations in performing physical examinations during remote consultations. In addition, disparities in access to digital technologies may contribute to inequalities in healthcare delivery.

Overall, telemedicine represents a promising tool for strengthening primary healthcare systems. Continued technological development, appropriate regulatory frameworks, and improved digital health literacy will be essential for maximizing the benefits of telemedicine in the future.

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