Abstract
This study presents a systematic review of digital health interventions in Indigenous communities, analysing 154 studies across diverse health domains, methods, and geographies. A structured search was conducted in the Scopus database, and eligible articles were coded using a framework capturing intervention types, methods, health domains, and Indigenous-specific affordances and constraints. The synthesis revealed diverse modalities, including mHealth, telehealth, social media, and web-based platforms, which improved accessibility, empowerment, whānau engagement, and continuity of care. However, persistent barriers such as digital inequities, limited literacy, cultural misalignment, sustainability issues, and colonial mistrust constrained outcomes. From these findings, a Vā framework was developed to map the interplay between enablers and systemic barriers, offering a culturally grounded lens for designing equitable, trusted, and sustainable digital health interventions. The study provides methodological clarity and actionable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers advancing Indigenous communities digital health.
Recommended Citation
Falevai, Ilaisaane; Hassandoust, Farkhondeh; Matenga-Ikihele, Amio; Day, Karen; and Sundaram, David, "The Vā between Indigenous Communities and Digital Health: A
Systematic Literature Review" (2025). ACIS 2025 Proceedings. 264.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/acis2025/264