Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
SEXUALITY RESEARCH AND SOCIAL POLICY, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
Introduction This study aimed to comprehensively review the implementation, feasibility, and acceptability of telehealth for gender-affirming care (GAC) among individuals with gender dysphoria (GD), focusing on patient experiences, provider perspectives, and structural factors influencing equitable service delivery. Methods PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and OpenGrey were systematically searched up to September 12, 2024. Data were extracted using a structured spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel. Eligibility assessment and study selection were conducted independently by two reviewers through a blinded, standardized process to enhance methodological rigor and reduce potential bias. Results A total of 416 records were identified, and 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies were categorized into four themes: feasibility and implementation challenges, perspectives of individuals with GD, viewpoints of healthcare providers and experts, and studies assessing both patient and expert perspectives. Overall, telehealth improved access, continuity of care, and satisfaction while reducing travel burden and exposure to stigma. Conclusions Telehealth can serve as an effective alternative or complement to in-person GAC by decreasing isolation, transportation costs, and social stigma. However, privacy concerns, technical barriers, unstable internet connectivity, unauthorized data access, and limited digital literacy remain important challenges. Policy Implications Expanding telehealth may enhance equitable access to GAC for individuals facing stigma, geographic barriers, or financial constraints. Implementation requires secure digital infrastructure, strong confidentiality protections, insurance parity, provider training, reduction of digital inequalities, and integration into national health policies to ensure safe, sustainable, and inclusive care.