Drivers and barriers of telemedicine in India: Seeking a new paradigm

Abstract

Telemedicine has emerged as a solution to the triad of accessibility, cost and quality in case of healthcare delivery systems world over. Despite its immense potential, its rate of usage is disappointingly low. The research identifies various factors influencing telemedicine acceptance in India. A modified version of UTAUT2 (Unified Theory of Acceptance and use of Technology is proposed to understand the integration of telemedicine by doctors in India. Government policy, support of the senior management and project team capability are additional variables being proposed in the study. Along with the drivers, the barriers and moderators affecting the behavior intention and actual usage of telemedicine in India are also identified through literature review. The results would assist policy makers and healthcare managers to recognize the variables influencing the acceptance, adoption and diffusion of telemedicine and, therefore, realize its potential in an emerging country like India.