Exploring determinants of patient attitudes toward telemedicine in primary care: a cross-sectional study in Türkiye

Telemedicine is a promising tool for integration into primary care, where it can enhance access and continuity of care. In Türkiye, telemedicine has not yet been routinely implemented in primary care, although regulatory and infrastructural preparations are underway. The success of such services depends not only on technical and legal frameworks but also on patients' attitudes.

This study aimed to assess patients' attitudes toward telemedicine and identify associated factors among adult attendees of family health centers (FHCs) in Türkiye, to inform the planning and implementation of telemedicine services at the primary care level.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in five FHCs between January and March 2025. Individuals aged 18 and over with Turkish literacy were included. Data were collected via a face-to-face questionnaire, which included demographic items and the validated 18-item Attitude Scale Toward the Use of Telemedicine Services.

Four hundred twenty participants (mean age 30.59 ± 12.67) completed the study; 75.5% were female, and 50% had university-level education. The mean scale score was 58.06 ± 14.88. Higher scores were associated with higher education (P < .001) and better economic status (P = .030). Participants who used mobile health applications (P = .043) and owned an internet-enabled device (P = .007) also had higher scores. Lower scores were observed among those with a disabled or dependent person at home (P = .006) and those with more frequent family physician visits (P = .045).

Patients who were younger, more highly educated, and with greater digital access exhibited more positive attitudes toward telemedicine.