The role of telemedicine in urological care for the elderly – benefits, challenges, and future perspectives

The aging population has led to an increasing number of patients with urological conditions, such as urinary tract infections, prostate and bladder cancer, and nephrolithiasis. These diseases often require regular medical visits, posing challenges for elderly patients with usually limited mobility, as well as for the burdened healthcare system. Telemedicine, through remote consultations and telemonitoring tools, can improve the care of urological patients, which require further analysis. A literature review in Polish and English was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases with the keywords: "telemedicine in urology," "telehealth in urology," "telehealth," "telementoring," and "telemedicine." Articles meeting the criteria, standards of practice according to the current guidelines, and relevant content related to the listed keywords were included. The authors evaluated the publications, excluding outdated information. Telemedicine facilitates early diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patients, reducing transport. Remote consultations allow for the assessment of laboratory and imaging results, monitoring of cancer treatment, and planning of surgical and pharmacological treatments. In andrology, telemedicine supports hormonal therapy and infertility diagnostics. The use of virtual rounds and surgical telementoring enhances the effectiveness of surgical treatment. Although studies indicate high acceptance and adaptation rates of telemedicine among patients and physicians, significant barriers to its implementation remain. These include limited technological proficiency among elderly patients, lack of formal training and standardization of telemedical procedures, and concerns regarding data security and confidentiality in teleconsultations. Not all procedures in urology can be effectively managed remotely and further research, including the optimal scope of telemedicine, is necessary. Telemedicine is an effective tool in geriatric urological care, improving access to specialists, reducing costs, and enhancing patients' quality of life. However, its successful integration into modern urology requires addressing technological, organizational, legal and ethical challenges. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2025;76(3).