Bridging gaps: the role of eHealth tools in immigrant health care transitions

Abstract

In 2022, Canada saw a significant influx of immigrants and non-permanent residents who despite contributing significantly to the economy, continue to face substantial health care challenges, including a decline in the “healthy immigrant effect”. This study examines the role of eHealth tools in facilitating immigrants’ health care transition in Canada, addressing a critical gap in existing research. Using a scoping review methodology, relevant literature was identified through the Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest databases, Ovid platform, and Google Scholar search engine. Twelve studies published between 2021 and 2024 met all criteria for inclusion. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo, Google NotebookLM, and DeepSeek. The findings highlight the potential of eHealth tools in chronic disease management, mental health support, and primary care access while also exposing disparities in eHealth adoption due to systemic barriers, limited digital literacy, and lack of awareness of existing solutions. The study underscores the need for culturally inclusive eHealth solutions, targeted digital literacy programs, and improved access to health care information. It calls for policy interventions and further research to ensure equitable health care access for Canada’s growing immigrant population and facilitate their integration into the health care system.