Telemedicine as an Approach to the Mental Health of Healthcare Workers in a Healthcare Network in Angola

Introduction: African healthcare professionals face significant mental health challenges. Telemedicine, widely adopted during the pandemic, has shown promise in overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to mental healthcare.Objective: To identify the key factors influencing the adoption of telemedicine as a tool to support healthcare workers’ mental health in an Angolan healthcare network and to develop a telemedicine model tailored to this context. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted, collecting quantitative data via a questionnaire applied to healthcare workers (n=275) and qualitative data through structured interviews (n=5) with psychologists and psychiatrists.Results: Previous experiences with mental health consultations, perceptions of teleconsultations, and the doctor-patient relationship were significant in influencing telemedicine adoption. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: perception and ease of telemedicine use, intention to use, and the perception of mental health in Angola. Key adoption factors included project feasibility, management support, training, payment policies, and adherence to legal, ethical, and deontological standards.Conclusion: Telemedicine can be a viable tool to support healthcare workers’ mental health. While there is clear intention to use it, establishing occupational mental health foundations in Angola’s healthcare network is essential. Overcoming barriers is crucial to incorporate digital transformation and create value.