Factors increasing telemedicine adoption across adult non-healthcare professionals: A systematic review of observational studies published between 2021 and 2025

Background: Telemedicine has emerged as a key digital healthcare platform, offering convenient access to medical services for the public. Despite its potential, widespread adoption remains hindered by lingering consumer skepticism.

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the factors increasing telemedicine adoption across adult non-healthcare professionals.

Materials and methods: This was a systematic review conducted of primary observational studies published between 2021 and 2025. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, the authors systematically searched three online databases (PubMed, ProQuest, and Science Direct) and screened articles using the PRISMA Flow Chart to identify eligible studies based on predefined inclusion criteria. The Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) critical assessment techniques were used to evaluate the quality of the research findings.

Results: From the reviewed secondary data derived from primary studies, 22 original articles were selected for analysis. Four major themes emerged as drivers of telemedicine utilization, including: 1) socioeconomic-demographic, such as age, education, income, employment, marital status, and social influence, 2) user’s perceived benefits factors like perceived usefulness, benefits, ease of use, and trust, 3) health-related problems, such as frequent healthcare demands, caregiving responsibilities, having chronic disease, and mental health conditions, and 4) internal factors or technological factors of telemedicine systems: price, service, and system quality.

Conclusion: In conclusion, telemedicine adoption is influenced by a multifaceted interplay of socioeconomic and demographic factors, a user’s perceived benefits, individual health needs, and systemic features.