Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
International Journal of Health Services Research and Policy (IJHSRP) , cilt.11, sa.2, ss.206-229, 2026 (Hakemli Dergi)
Abstract: Telehealth has become a central component of digital transformation in primary health care.
Although its operational benefits are well documented, a clearer understanding of patient attitudes is
essential for ensuring patient-centred, equitable, and sustainable service delivery. This study aimed to
explore and synthesise adult patients’ attitudes toward telehealth in primary health care, with particular
attention to perceived benefits, experienced difficulties, and contextual influences on acceptance. This
study was designed as a qualitative evidence synthesis and reported in accordance with the ENTREQ
statement. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science to
identify peer-reviewed qualitative studies published in English between 1 January 2025 and 31
December 2025. Eligible studies examined adult patients’ experiences, perceptions, or attitudes
regarding telehealth in primary care or primary-care-linked services. The study selection process was
documented in accordance with the PRISMA framework. Data were synthesised through thematic
synthesis, including line-by-line coding, development of descriptive themes, and generation of higher-
order analytical interpretations. Seventeen studies were included. The synthesis showed that telehealth
was generally perceived as a valuable but conditional mode of care. Patients particularly valued
improved access, convenience, reduced travel burden, and support for follow-up and self-management.
At the same time, they reported important concerns related to limited physical examination,
communication quality, impersonality, technical difficulties, and uneven digital capability. Attitudes
were strongly shaped by telehealth modality, consultation purpose, continuity of care, prior patient–
clinician relationships, and social and technological conditions. Adult patients’ attitudes toward
telehealth in primary health care are nuanced and context-dependent rather than uniformly positive or
negative. Sustainable integration of telehealth requires more than technological availability; it depends
on relational continuity, clear communication, clinical appropriateness, and equitable digital access.
Telehealth is most likely to be accepted when implemented as part of a hybrid, patient-centred primary
care model.
Keywords: Telehealth, primary health care, digital transformation, patient attitudes, qualitative
evidence synthesis