Abstract
Introduction: The successful integration of telemedicine into primary care depends largely on its acceptance by family physicians, who function as gatekeepers. Although global research on telemedicine adoption has expanded, significant gaps persist regarding family physicians practicing in diverse socio-cultural contexts, such as Iran. This study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and attitudes of family physicians in Hamadan Province, Iran, toward telemedicine and to identify associated demographic and professional factors.
Methods: A descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 among family physicians working in comprehensive health service centers affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. Using stratified random sampling, 182 physicians were selected. Data were collected using a validated, multidimensional questionnaire based on established technology acceptance frameworks. The instrument assessed awareness (12 items), knowledge (10 items), and attitudes (9 items). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and multiple linear regression.
Results: Mean total scores were 38.9±9.4 (range 12–60) for awareness, 6.6±2.1 (range 0–10) for knowledge, and 34.2±6.8 (range 9–45) for attitudes, indicating moderate awareness, moderate knowledge, and moderate-to-high attitudes. Regression analyses indicated that work experience significantly predicted awareness (β=0.38, P<0.001), knowledge (β=0.22, P<0.001), and attitudes (β=0.12, P=0.003). Younger age was associated with higher knowledge scores (P=0.004). Furthermore, male physicians reported significantly more positive attitudes than their female counterparts (P=0.042). Significant variations were also observed across workplace locations, with urban centers generally demonstrating higher knowledge scores.
Conclusion: Family physicians in Hamadan Province demonstrate a foundational yet moderate level of readiness for telemedicine adoption. These findings underscore the need for tailored, multi-faceted interventions. Recommended strategies include demographic-specific educational programs (particularly for older physicians and those in rural areas), investment in digital infrastructure in underserved regions, and gender-responsive training approaches. Such measures are essential for promoting the equitable and effective integration of telemedicine into Iran’s primary healthcare system.