The digitalisation of services, most notably in healthcare through the development and implementation of telemedicine, is transforming service delivery in Italy’s inner areas. While this technological change offers new opportunities to address different barriers these areas face, it also raises complex questions regarding the fulfilment of constitutional obligations regarding equity and accessibility to healthcare services. This paper examines the intersection of digitalisation, legal frameworks, and the digital divide, focusing on telemedicine’s potential to reduce or deepen healthcare access disparities. When strongly supported by digital infrastructure and connectivity, telemedicine can improve healthcare service delivery in rural and mountainous territories. Therefore, offering remote consultation, diagnostics, and monitoring to residents in these areas enhances access and continuity of care. However, the benefits of this advanced technology are not distributed uniformly across the country. Furthermore, the digital divide is characterised by inequalities in broadband access, digital literacy, and technology affordability and remains a paramount challenge for telemedicine. Without focused attempts to address these inequities, telemedicine risks replicating present patterns of exclusion, favouring those with digital skills and access. Legally, the Italian state has a fundamental responsibility to ensure equal access to healthcare for all, as stipulated in Article 32 of the Italian Republic’s Constitution and enshrined in the international human rights framework. Moreover, the development of telemedicine requires a reassessment of this obligation. In conclusion, integrating telemedicine into health systems in inner areas presents significant promises and challenges. While digital health tools can increase efficiency and access, their success depends on a technologically advanced and socially based policy framework. Bridging the digital divide and reaffirming the right to health as a universal guarantee are essential steps towards building a more inclusive and resilient health system for all citizens, regardless of their geographical origin.
