Remote Palliative Care: A Systematic Review of Effectiveness, Accessibility, and Patient Satisfaction

Remote palliative care has emerged as a viable option to address the complex needs of patients facing life-limiting illnesses, particularly in the context of evolving healthcare landscapes and technological advancements. This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine the effectiveness, accessibility, and patient satisfaction of remote palliative care interventions. Through a meticulous analysis of empirical studies, clinical trials, and qualitative research, this review synthesizes evidence about the impact of remote palliative care on clinical outcomes, patient access to services, and overall satisfaction levels. Our findings highlight the benefits of remote palliative care, including improved symptom management, enhanced patient autonomy, and greater convenience in accessing care, particularly for individuals in rural or underserved areas. Moreover, we identify key facilitators and barriers influencing the implementation and uptake of remote palliative care services, such as technological proficiency, infrastructure limitations, and concerns regarding the quality of interpersonal communication. By critically evaluating the existing literature, this review underscores the significance of remote palliative care as a patient-centred approach to delivering compassionate end-of-life care. Furthermore, it underscores the need for ongoing research efforts and policy initiatives to optimize the effectiveness and accessibility of remote palliative care services to ensure equitable and high-quality care for all patients facing serious illnesses.