Between algorithms and territories: a scoping review on digital health and artificial intelligence in primary care

Lopes Júnior et al.

This scoping review summarized recent scientific output on the use of mobile digital technologies in primary health care (PHC) within the context of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). The review was based on the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Studies published between 2020 and 2025 and indexed in the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, and Virtual Health Library databases were included. Thirty articles were selected, covering various digital solutions, such as self-care apps, chatbots, clinical management platforms, educational games, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The main findings indicate that these solutions contribute to expanding access, personalizing care, improving management quality, and strengthening health education. However, significant barriers were identified, such as digital inequalities, lack of interoperability, gaps in digital training of providers, and ethical challenges involving the use of AI. We conclude that the responsible, equitable use of mobile digital technologies, when coordinated with the Brazilian Digital Health Strategy guidelines and the tenets of the National Primary Care Policy, can strengthen PHC and the effectiveness of the SUS.

Article's language
Portuguese
Review