The Effectiveness of Telemedicine on Distress, Physical Function and Self-Efficacy in Patients With Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

Background: Cancer is a major social, public health and economic problem worldwide, causing physical and psychological distress to patients. The emerging telemedicine model in healthcare delivery has garnered significant interest because of its potential effectiveness.

Objective: To assess the effects of telemedicine on distress, physical function, and self-efficacy in cancer patients.

Design: This meta-analysis was conducted and reported in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist.

Methods: Six databases were searched for relevant studies published from inception to October 2024. The literature search and data collection were conducted by two separate researchers. The quality of the methodologies in the studies included was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Data analysis was conducted using Review Manager (version 5.4).

Result: Compared with the control group, patients who received telemedicine experienced significant reductions in distress (SMD = -0.44, 95% CI: -0.62 to -0.25, p < 0.00001, I = 46%) and significant increases in physical function (SMD = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.01-0.22, p = 0.04, I = 0%) and self-efficacy (SMD = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.23-0.69, p < 0.0001, I = 0%).

Conclusion: Telemedicine can effectively enhance the psychological health and physiological function of cancer patients, as well as their self-efficacy, suggesting a sustainable approach to the clinical care of cancer patients. Future studies are needed to further investigate the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions in different types of cancer patients and in different cultural contexts and to conduct long-term follow-up studies to evaluate their long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

Clinical Relevance: This systematic review and meta-analysis provides evidence to offer effective and sustainable telemedicine care among cancer patients.

Patient And Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution.

Trial Registration: This study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (Registration number: CRD42024604929) under the title 'The effectiveness of death education on death anxiety, depression and quality of life in patients with advanced cancer: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials'. The full study protocol could be obtained at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024604929.