Barriers Leading to the Discontinuance of Telemedicine among Healthcare Providers: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction:Telemedicine, once considered a groundbreaking innovation in healthcare, has seen a marked decline in usage, highlighting numerous barriers to its continued adoption. This systematic review aims to identify and analyze the socio-technological, individual, institutional, and behavioral factors that contribute to the discontinuance of telemedicine among healthcare providers.Methods:A comprehensive search of PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted, identifying 1,070 peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2024. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 22 studies were selected for detailed analysis.Results:Several socio-technological barriers were identified, including issues with system usability, unreliable infrastructure, and a lack of interoperability, all of which hinder the seamless integration of telemedicine into clinical workflows. Additionally, individual-level factors such as low technological self-efficacy, anxiety, and concerns about the depersonalization of care emerged as significant challenges. Institutional barriers, such as insufficient training, inadequate resource allocation, and high workloads, further complicate the adoption of telemedicine. Behavioral resistance, including reluctance to change and fears related to compliance and professional identity, also exacerbated the challenges faced by healthcare providers.Conclusions:Addressing the identified barriers requires a multifaceted approach. Technological improvements, enhanced usability, and targeted interventions aimed at reducing psychological resistance and improving institutional support are essential to promoting the sustained use of telemedicine in healthcare.