# Cultural and Technological Barriers to Telehealth Adoption for Type 2 Diabetes Management Among Asian American Patients: Qualitative Case Study

## TL;DR

This study explores why Asian American patients with type 2 diabetes struggle to adopt telehealth, highlighting cultural and technological barriers.

## Contribution

The study identifies four key barriers to telehealth adoption among Asian American T2DM patients through a qualitative case study.

## Key findings

- Language and cultural barriers limit access due to a lack of translated materials and interpreters.
- Older adults and those with low digital literacy face challenges using telehealth platforms.
- Low-income individuals struggle with the cost and access to necessary technology for telehealth.

## Abstract

In the past decade, telehealth has transformed health care delivery by allowing patients more rapid and convenient access to necessary care without the cost and logistical challenges of traveling to a health care facility. Telehealth services can benefit patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) amid a growing epidemic of T2DM in the United States that affects people of all ages and races. In 2020, 33 million people were diagnosed with this chronic disease, with the number expected to rise by 50% by 2040. Telehealth facilitates regular contact between patients and their providers, especially when there are geographic barriers and time constraints prohibiting physical interaction, at little or no added cost to the patient and at their convenience.

This study examines cultural and technological barriers affecting telehealth adoption among Asian American people with T2DM.

A qualitative case study approach was employed, utilizing semistructured interviews with 30 Asian American individuals in Missouri. Thematic analysis was used to identify key barriers.

Four major barriers emerged: (1) language and cultural barriers—limited availability of translated materials and interpreters; (2) limited digital literacy and access—older adults and individuals with low technological exposure struggled with telehealth platforms; (3) limited provider recommendations—health care providers did not actively endorse telehealth, reducing patient awareness of telehealth as an option; and (4) technology access and infrastructure disparities—low-income participants faced challenges with the costs of and access to broadband and telehealth-compatible devices.

Addressing cultural and technological barriers is crucial to increasing telehealth adoption among Asian American people with T2DM. Culturally tailored interventions, provider engagement, and digital literacy programs should be prioritized. Policy efforts must focus on expanding broadband access and providing multilingual telehealth resources.