Ethical Issues Linked to the Development of Telerehabilitation: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

While telerehabilitation (TR) makes it possible to respond to many significant health system problems, TR still gives rise to debates, particularly concerning ethical issues. This qualitative study collected the opinions of stakeholders with varied profiles. A guided interview focused on discerning strategies that might foster the ethical deployment of TR. Such strategies were found to be linked to the decision-making of the public authorities, the role of scientific and professional bodies, the training of health professionals, and the management of patient information. Ethical issues relating to the development of TR included universal accessibility, patients’ free choice, respect of privacy, and professional confidentiality. The ethical development of TR can be fostered by the provision of information to stakeholders as well as reminding practitioners of the ethical framework that regulates medical practice.