Factors Influencing Telemedicine Adoption in Emerging Economies

The increasing use of telemedicine has transformed communication between patients, physicians, and other health professionals through virtual platforms, offering new possibilities for healthcare delivery and accessibility.

This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the acceptance of telemedicine services among women in Peru by applying an extended and conceptually adapted unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model.

A quantitative correlational design was used, involving a survey of 503 Peruvian women. Data were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique with SmartPLS 4 software. The analysis included a measurement model to assess convergent and discriminant validity of the constructs, followed by a structural model to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings revealed that performance expectancy, social influence, effort expectancy, and perceived safety are the most influential factors affecting women's intention to use telemedicine services.

From a theoretical perspective, this study contributes to understanding telemedicine adoption among Peruvian women by validating the relevance and reliability of the extended UTAUT model in this context. Practically, the results provide valuable insights for designing public policies and training programs to promote the use of telemedicine in Peru.