To examine how sociodemographic factors influence access to eHealth services in Spain, particularly in light of the digital divide exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Findings:
The digital divide in eHealth access is influenced by multiple sociodemographic factors, with specific emphasis on marginalized groups such as the elderly and low-income individuals.
Age and gender are significant determinants of eHealth adoption and usage, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Certain social groups face marginalization and exclusion from digital health services, necessitating policy changes to ensure equitable access.
Interpretation:
The findings suggest that while eHealth has the potential to improve healthcare access, it also risks exacerbating existing inequalities if not addressed adequately, calling for targeted strategies to mitigate these risks.
Limitations:
The study may not encompass all sociodemographic factors affecting eHealth access, particularly emerging trends post-COVID-19.
Limited focus on specific regional disparities within Spain, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:
Addressing the digital divide is crucial for ensuring equitable access to eHealth services, particularly in the post-COVID-19 landscape, and ongoing research is essential to adapt to evolving challenges.
A global systematic review of 173 studies found differing associations between COVID-19 infection and vaccination and retinal vascular events, with retinal artery occlusion more common after infection and retinal vein occlusion more common after vaccination.
