ASSESSING TELEMEDICINE ADOPTION IN ZAMBIA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF ACCEPTABILITY AND UTILIZATION

Abstract

Introduction: Telemedicine is increasingly recognized as a solution to healthcare challenges in Zambia, particularly in addressing healthcare worker shortages, infrastructure gaps, and overcrowding. This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on the acceptability and utilization of telemedicine in Zambia, identifying key influencing factors, service providers, and areas of application.Methods: A narrative review approach was used, involving searches on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for literature published between 2014 - 2024. Boolean operators (AND/OR) were applied to keywords such as “telemedicine,” “acceptability,” “utilization.” Narrative review,” and “Zambia.” Grey literature from institutional reports and service provider websites was also reviewed. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were synthesized in this review. Results: The nine studies reviewed indicate growing acceptance and use of telemedicine in Zambia, particularly in neurology, mental health, HIV/TB care, and maternal health. Telemedicine support remote consultations, patient monitoring, and provider tele-mentoring. High patient and provider satisfaction was reported, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with users citing reduced travel and wait times. Consultation success rates were high for appropriately triaged cases, and tele-mentoring improved provider confidence and clinical outcomes. Private and donor-supported providers play a key role in expanding services. However, barriers like limited digital infrastructure, low digital literacy, and privacy concerns hinder broader adoption. Conclusion: Telemedicine is a promising tool for healthcare delivery in Zambia, particularly in underserved areas. However, to enhance utilization, infrastructure and policy gaps must be addressed. Strengthening digital literacy, improving connectivity, and integrating telemedicine into national healthcare systems will be critical for its expansion.