Abstract
Objective: To provide a rigorous synthesis drawing on available evidence from systematic reviews assessing telehealth interventions for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Method: This umbrella review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and centers on adults diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis according to ACR/EULAR criteria. All telehealth modalities were included, following the definition set by the WHO in 2016. Multiple databases were consulted, ensuring rigorous study selection and validation. Results: Telehealth interventions show promise for rheumatoid arthritis self-management, with effectiveness similar to that seen in other chronic conditions. However, some barriers were observed, such as challenges in using technology, heterogeneity in study approaches, and limitations in platform usability. Even so, the results indicated significant improvements across multiple domains, such as physical activity, functional capacity, and medication adherence, in line with prior research. The heterogeneity found across studies indicates the need for more robust future investigations. Conclusion: Telehealth interventions show potential for managing rheumatoid arthritis, offering a safe and effective alternative to support individuals with this condition. It is essential to address the identified challenges by enhancing tool usability and specificity, and by promoting rigorous research that substantiates its long-term effectiveness.
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