Iranian Journal of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine

Recent developments in the digital domain and its influence in the health sector have led to the development of digital health technologies. The development of these technologies in addition to the benefits such as lowering medical care costs and improving the quality of patient care, has introduced new ethical challenges into the field of medicine. In this study, 25 articles were identified on the ethical challenges in digital health technologies by using literature review. These articles were in areas of mobile health, electronic health records, telemedicine, electronic health, wearable and big data technologies. The ethical challenges found in the articles reviewed in the field of digital health include: the privacy challenges that are due to the creation of huge data sources in this type of technology, how to ensure access justice, challenges for determining the responsibilities of surgical and technical members in telemedicine technologies, changing the patient's role, challenges regarding data ownership and patient access to raw data, the challenge of balancing the privacy of patient information and data sharing in advancing the community's science and health big data, and guaranteed quality of provided health information. These surveys can be effective in identifying challenges and developing ethical guidelines before developing and applying these types of technologies.

Televisits offer significant potential for enhancing healthcare accessibility, reducing costs, and improving patient satisfaction. However, their effective implementation requires careful consideration of ethical principles to ensure patient safety, privacy, and quality of care. This paper examines key ethical considerations for televisit implementation across three stages: pre-visit, during-visit, and post-visit. Pre-visit considerations include careful patient selection to ensure suitability for remote care, establishing a strong physician-patient relationship based on trust and obtaining informed consent, and demonstrating cultural sensitivity and inter-professional coordination. During the televisit, optimal technical conditions are critical, including reliable internet connectivity, high-quality audio-visual equipment, and a conducive physical environment. Comprehensive and transparent documentation of the televisit encounter is essential. Post-visit considerations include evaluating patient experiences, addressing any identified issues, and ensuring timely follow-up for continuous quality improvement. Ethical considerations extend beyond the clinical encounter. Addressing technical challenges such as data security, privacy breaches, and equitable access for all populations, including those with disabilities, is crucial. Transparent reimbursement mechanisms and ongoing education for both patients and healthcare providers are essential for successful televisit integration. The successful implementation of televisits requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses ethical considerations at all stages. Developing comprehensive guidelines, adhering to international standards, and establishing robust oversight mechanisms are essential for ensuring the safe, effective, and equitable utilization of this innovative technology in healthcare delivery.