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Digital Health Transformation Through Telemedicine (2020–2025): Barriers, Facilitators, and Clinical Outcomes—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Background: Telemedicine expanded dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming healthcare delivery worldwide. However, implementation faced challenges, and the impact on clinical outcomes, access, and quality remains under investigation. Objective: To systematically review the literature from 2020 to 2025 on telemedicine adoption, identifying key barriers and facilitators, and to evaluate clinical outcomes associated with telehealth use during this period. Methods: We followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines in conducting this review. Multiple databases were searched for studies on the implementation or evaluation of telemedicine/telehealth. Eligible studies included randomized trials and observational studies reporting telehealth-related outcomes, barriers, or facilitators. Two reviewers screened studies and extracted data on study characteristics, telemedicine interventions, barriers/facilitators, and clinical outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB2 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for qualitative or cross-sectional studies. Meta-analyses were performed where data were comparable, and qualitative synthesis was used to summarize barriers and facilitators. Results: Thirty-two studies (17 RCTs and 15 observational) were included. Telemedicine use surged in 2020 and remained elevated compared to baseline through August 2025. Reported barriers included insufficient broadband access, limited digital literacy, uncertain reimbursement policies, and workflow disruptions. Facilitators encompassed supportive policy waivers, the integration of telehealth into established care pathways, and strong acceptance from patients and providers. Clinical outcomes were generally comparable to in-person care. Telehealth enhanced chronic disease management (e.g., hypertension, diabetes) and decreased hospitalizations for heart failure, while ensuring safety in surgical follow-up and prenatal care. However, higher revisit rates were observed in some acute follow-up settings. Patient satisfaction consistently remained high, especially among rural and underserved populations reporting benefits, though disparities in digital access continued to exist. Conclusions: Telemedicine has become a sustainable component of healthcare, delivering clinical outcomes comparable to traditional care while offering convenience and resilience. Overcoming technology gaps, regulatory uncertainties, and equity issues is crucial for ongoing progress. Hybrid care models that combine telemedicine with in-person services, supported by strong policy frameworks, are recommended to maximize benefits and promote fair access in the post-pandemic era.
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  • 09 Dec 2025
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