Telehealth and healthcare access for individuals with Down syndrome: a systematic review of opportunities and barriers.

BACKGROUND

People with Down syndrome (DS) face significant barriers in accessing healthcare. Telehealth, defined as the delivery of healthcare services through direct clinical interaction using telecommunications technologies such as videoconferencing, telephone, or remote monitoring, has emerged as a potential strategy to improve accessibility and quality of care. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on the impact of telehealth interventions on healthcare access for individuals with DS.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of studies evaluating telehealth interventions for people with DS. Four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar) were searched from inception to May 31, 2025. Eligible studies included interventions involving direct remote clinical care (e.g., videoconferencing, telephone, telemonitoring). Screening and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer.

RESULTS

Of 332 records screened after duplicate removal, 53 full-text articles were reviewed and 39 were included. Interventions ranged from teleconsultations to remote monitoring and mobile applications. Findings suggested potential improvements in healthcare access, clinical outcomes, and satisfaction. However, most studies were small in sample size, varied in design, and more than half had a moderate risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Telehealth shows promise in improving access to healthcare for people with DS, but current evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses and heterogeneity. Future research should focus on larger, high-quality studies to clarify long-term impacts and inform implementation strategies.