How, when and why is emotional support delivered using videoconferencing by adult palliative care services successful? A realist synthesis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Videoconferencing (also known as telehealth) is part of digitally enabled healthcare provision ('eHealth') and its use in palliative care practice is increasing. There is uncertainty and limited evidence to guide organisations in how to use this technology to provide emotional support for patients, caregivers and the bereaved.

Objectives

How, why, and in which circumstances can videoconferencing be used to successfully meet the emotional support needs of adults receiving palliative care?

Design

Realist synthesis of literature was conducted according to RAMESES guidelines.

Data sources and methods

Evidence of research studies and practice descriptions about successful emotional support interventions in palliative care by videoconferencing were identif

SUBMITTER: Wood MJM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12357020 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature