The acceptability of using telemedicine among nurses in Morocco: Nurses' perception in primary healthcare facilities in Fès[L’acceptabilité de l’usage de la télémédecine chez les infirmiers au Maroc : Perception des infirmiers des établissements de soins de santé primaires de Fès]

Telemedicine is emerging as a key solution to address territorial disparities in healthcare access in Morocco, where 270 rural municipalities suffer from critical healthcare isolation. Although nurses play a pivotal role in teleconsultations in these areas, their perceptions of this innovation remain largely unknown. This study aims to assess the acceptability of telemedicine among nurses in primary healthcare facilities (PHCFs) in Fez, by examining the psychosocial and organizational determinants of their intention to use it. We conducted a cross-sectional quantitative study based on an adapted UTAUT model, enriched with two contextual variables (perceived workload and incentive-based remuneration). A validated questionnaire (α = 0.84) was administered to 113 nurses (response rate: 88.5%) from 40 PHCFs. The analyses combined descriptive and inferential approaches (multiple linear regression, confirmatory factor analysis) using SPSS 28. The study reveals that 51% of nurses express a positive intention to use telemedicine. Performance expectancy (β = 0.47; p < 0.01) and facilitating conditions (β = 0.39; p = 0.01) emerge as significant predictors. Notable differences appear between urban areas (mean intention = 3.2/5) and rural areas (3.8/5; p = 0.04). The main barriers identified include a lack of training (50%) and insufficient technical resources (73%). The successful deployment of telemedicine in Morocco requires a multidimensional approach, combining the strengthening of technological infrastructure, the integration of dedicated training modules into nursing curricula, and the implementation of targeted financial incentives. These findings advocate for the development of a national strategy specifically tailored to the needs and constraints of nursing professionals.