A bibliometric analysis of patient-centred digital healthcare services studies

BackgroundThe rapid advancement of digital technologies has transformed healthcare delivery, yet significant gaps remain in patient-centred research on digital healthcare services (DHCS).ObjectiveThis study aims to map the global research landscape of patient-centred DHCS, identify key themes and collaboration patterns, and highlight gaps to guide future research.MethodsFollowing a narrative review of DHCS evolution with China as a regional case study, a bibliometric analysis was conducted on 4163 publications retrieved from Scopus (2020-2025). VOSviewer and the Bibliometrix R package were used for visual mapping and trend analysis.ResultsPatient satisfaction with telemedicine has emerged as a key research focus, while on-site healthcare scenarios receive comparatively less attention. Additionally, the elderly population, as primary users of healthcare services, remains underrepresented in studies on the usability and experience of digital healthcare services. Research methodologies, including questionnaires, interviews, and randomised controlled trials, address diverse demographics and dimensions. International collaboration is dominated by the United States and European countries, reflecting their scientific influence.ConclusionCritical gaps identified include insufficient attention to on-site DHCS and elderly users, alongside disparities in global research influence. Future research should prioritise these areas and strengthen cross-continental collaboration to advance patient-centred digital healthcare delivery.