Feasibility and acceptability of telemedicine in prenatal care for low-risk pregnancies: a comparative study of remote and in-person approaches in the Czech Republic

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of remote prenatal care using a smartphone application for women with low-risk pregnancies, and to compare outcomes with standard in-person care. METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Institute for Maternal and Child Care in Podolí, Prague. A total of 225 pregnant women were enrolled: 119 received combined telemedicine and standard in-person follow-ups (W-DF group), while 106 received only standard in-person care (W-PF group). Data on patient satisfaction across various domains of care were collected and analysed. RESULTS: Women in the W-DF group reported significantly higher satisfaction with information adequacy, confidentiality, and understanding of test results (p < 0.001). Conversely, the W-PF group showed greater satisfaction in childbirth preparedness, access to community programmes, and lifestyle guidance (p < 0.05). Overall satisfaction scores were comparable between the two groups (W-DF mean = 263.0, W-PF mean = 275.1; p = 0.263). CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine in prenatal care offers advantages such as reduced time and logistical burdens and improved personalization of care. However, psychosocial and lifestyle support remains stronger in traditional models. A hybrid model that integrates telemedicine with periodic in-person visits may provide more comprehensive support. Further large-scale studies are needed to optimize implementation.