Homepage > Research abstracts > E-Health and Tele-Medicine for the Bedouin population in the Northern Negev Region – an opportunity for closing gaps
E-Health and Tele-Medicine for the Bedouin population in the Northern Negev Region – an opportunity for closing gaps
Researchers: Limor Aharonson-Daniel1, Paula Feder-Bubis1, Assi Cicurel1,2
- Ben Gurion University of the Negev
- Clalit Health Care Services
Background: Studies indicate a growing trend in the use of digital healthcare services (DHS) and their contribution to public health. However, significant disparities and barriers persist, shaped by individual and environmental factors of service recipients. One of the most vulnerable populations in this context is the Bedouin population in the Negev, which faces unique challenges in accessing digital healthcare services.
Objectives: • To explore the appropriateness of eHealth services as a platform for improving the Bedouin population’s healthcare access.
• To map levels of digital health literacy, knowledge, and current use of eHealth and telemedicine services among this population.
• To identify and characterize sub-groups with access gaps in this regard.
• To offer solutions for improving access to eHealth and telemedicine and service tailoring for the study population.
• To map levels of digital health literacy, knowledge, and current use of eHealth and telemedicine services among this population.
• To identify and characterize sub-groups with access gaps in this regard.
• To offer solutions for improving access to eHealth and telemedicine and service tailoring for the study population.
Method: A mixed-methods study was conducted, consisting of: In-depth interviews with key figures from Bedouin communities in the Negev, and healthcare professionals (n=12); A population survey (n=587); and a simulation study (n=71).
Findings: Significant barriers to accessing DHS were identified, including limited infrastructure, gaps in digital literacy, lack of trust in DHS, and dependence on mediators. The survey revealed disparities in digital health literacy based on demographic factors such as education, income, and access to technology. Findings from the simulation study indicated a decline in concentration, motivation, and confidence as tasks became more complex and time-consuming.
Conclusions: Despite the availability of DHS, barriers limit their utilization among the Bedouin population. Subgroups such as older adults, residents of unrecognized villages, and low-income individuals are particularly vulnerable to digital exclusion .
Recommendations: To bridge these gaps, policymakers should focus on strengthening trust in DHS through awareness campaigns and integrating community stakeholders in implementation.
Research number: R/265/2021
Research end date: 03/2025