Palliative care and technology: the role of Telemedicine and e-health

Abstract

Background: The integration of digital health interventions (DHIs) into palliative care presents a unique opportunity to address the
complex, holistic needs of patients with life-limiting illnesses. Effective DHIs must be designed to support patient dignity, reinforce
therapeutic relationships, and align with patient and caregiver values and goals, particularly as health deteriorates. While the
potential of DHIs to improve access and person-centred care is significant, a systematic synthesis of their specific roles and
implementations is needed. Methods: A systematic review of the literature from major scientific databases (e.g., PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO) were searched from the last decade to December 2024 for peer-reviewed articles evaluating DHIs in palliative care settings. Data on study design, population, intervention type (e.g., telemedicine, mHealth, remote monitoring), and outcomes related to efficacy, accessibility, and patient/professional experience were extracted and synthesized narratively. Results: The review identified a diverse ecosystem of DHIs, including synchronous telehealth for clinical consultations, asynchronous monitoring for symptom management, and mHealth platforms for patient education and support. These interventions facilitate core palliative care functions such as routine clinical monitoring, comprehensive symptom assessment, timely psychological support, and access to spiritual care. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a significant catalyst, accelerating the adoption of telehealth and demonstrating its utility in maintaining continuity of care while reducing physical and geographic barriers. Conclusion: DHIs are a valuable and increasingly essential component of modern palliative care. They effectively enhance access to specialized services, reduce care disparities, and can be structured to preserve patient dignity and goal-concordant care. Future efforts should focus on standardizing outcome measures, ensuring equitable access, and developing robust evidence for the longterm integration of these technologies into palliative care models.