Exploring the uses of digital health in palliative care in Southeast Asia.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This integrative review explores the use of digital health technologies in palliative care within Southeast Asia. Despite extensive documentation of digital health in palliative care in Western nations, its application in Southeast Asia remains underdeveloped. METHOD: The review includes a total of four papers meeting the eligibility criteria. FINDINGS: The findings reveal limited studies of digital health adoption in palliative care. Key technologies include mobile health applications, electronic health records and telemedicine platforms. Challenges, such as health inequities, data security and the need for technology validation were identified. The review underscores the necessity for region-specific research to address these challenges and improve the integration of digital health in palliative care. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the potential of digital health to enhance palliative care delivery and patient outcomes in Southeast Asia, advocating for increased adoption and tailored implementation strategies.