Table 1.

Outlines the evolution of telemedicine, highlighting key developments across different periods

Time period	Key developments in telemedicine
1950s	First use of telemedicine involved transmitting radiologic images over telephone lines for diagnostic purposes. Laid the groundwork for remote medical consultations using emerging communication technologies[16].
Late 20th century	The surge in telemedicine adoption is driven by: Growing popularity of the internet. Advancements in video conferencing. Mobile health apps. Wearable devices. Enabled healthcare providers can interact with and monitor patients remotely[16].
Early 21st century	Telemedicine rapidly gained traction as a practical solution for improving healthcare accessibility, especially in underserved areas. Remote patient monitoring and wearable technology integration expanded virtual care delivery capabilities[16].
COVID-19 pandemic	We have significantly accelerated the mainstream adoption of telemedicine. Healthcare systems sought to provide care safely while limiting in-person contact. The surge in telemedicine usage has continued[17].
Present day	Telemedicine is widely accepted as a mainstream method of care delivery. Telehealth services are becoming increasingly integrated into the healthcare system. Ongoing policy changes and technological advancements continue to shape the future of telemedicine. Virtual care is becoming more accessible, specialized, and globally connected[17].