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Ansari RS, Alfakeer H, Arif F, Bashir MA, Zehra M, Rauf SA, Shah HH, Qayyum SN, Tehseen A. Exploring medical students' perceptions of telehealth in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:1093. [PMID: 39375724 PMCID: PMC11460005 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-06086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to investigate medical students' perceptions of telehealth in Pakistan and assess the relationship between students' proficiency in computers and technology, gender, and age. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on 330 medical students from various universities in Karachi, Pakistan. Data on demographic characteristics, computer proficiency, and perceptions of telehealth were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient were utilized for data analysis. RESULTS The study included 330 participants, predominantly from public universities (83.3%), with a mean age of 21.40 ± 4.24 years. Most participants were pursuing MBBS (67%). In terms of computer proficiency, 41.8% fell into the middle category. Gender correlated significantly with proficiency (p < 0.05), with females more often in the middle category and males in the not-that-amateur category. Age demonstrated a small positive correlation with proficiency (p < 0.05). A majority (77.6%) expressed a general interest in technology. Regarding healthcare apps, 51.8% had 1-3 apps, and 33.6% had none. Most participants believed telehealth would enhance healthcare (72.1%) and make it cheaper (63.3%). Additionally, 56.7% agreed that Pakistan should invest in telehealth, while only 2.7% disagreed. CONCLUSION The study revealed that medical students in Pakistan exhibit an interest in technology and perceive telehealth as beneficial. These findings suggest that telehealth holds the potential to enhance healthcare opportunities in Pakistan. Therefore, investing in and expanding telehealth services may represent a viable solution for improving access to healthcare in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hussein Alfakeer
- Faculty of International Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fariha Arif
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Maha Zehra
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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Sheerah HA, AlSalamah S, Alsalamah SA, Lu CT, Arafa A, Zaatari E, Alhomod A, Pujari S, Labrique A. The Rise of Virtual Health Care: Transforming the Health Care Landscape in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Review Article. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:2545-2554. [PMID: 38984415 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2024.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The rise of virtual healthcare underscores the transformative influence of digital technologies in reshaping the healthcare landscape. As technology advances and the global demand for accessible and convenient healthcare services escalates, the virtual healthcare sector is gaining unprecedented momentum. Saudi Arabia, with its ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, is actively embracing digital innovation in the healthcare sector. Methods: In this narrative review, we discussed the key drivers and prospects of virtual healthcare in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its potential to enhance healthcare accessibility, quality, and patient outcomes. We also summarized the role of the COVID-19 pandemic in the digital transformation of healthcare in the country. Healthcare services provided by Seha Virtual Hospital in Saudi Arabia, the world's largest and Middle East's first virtual hospital, were also described. Finally, we proposed a roadmap for the future development of virtual health in the country. Results and conclusions: The integration of virtual healthcare into the existing healthcare system can enhance patient experiences, improve outcomes, and contribute to the overall well-being of the population. However, careful planning, collaboration, and investment are essential to overcome the challenges and ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of virtual healthcare in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haytham A Sheerah
- Ministry of Health, Office of the Vice Minister of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shada AlSalamah
- Information Systems Department, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Digital Health and Innovation, Science Division, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sara A Alsalamah
- College of Computer and Information Sciences, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Computer Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Chang-Tien Lu
- Department of Computer Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Ahmed Arafa
- Department of Preventive Cardiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Japan
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Ezzedine Zaatari
- Ministry of Health, Office of the Vice Minister of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alhomod
- Ministry of Health, SEHA Virtual Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Emergency Medicine Administration, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameer Pujari
- Department of Digital Health and Innovation, Science Division, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alain Labrique
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland,United States
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Hussain KHH, Al Shmanee MZ, Taha FH, Samara KA, Barqawi HJ, Dash NR. Perception, Usability, and Satisfaction with Telemedicine in the United Arab Emirates. Telemed J E Health 2024. [PMID: 39072672 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2024.0207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine has become a global tool for enhancing health care accessibility. However, its widespread adoption is still limited by technological illiteracy, lack of appropriate devices, slow internet services, and privacy concerns. In the Middle East and North Africa, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there is a dearth of telemedicine research. This study aimed to understand the perceptions and satisfaction levels of the UAE population regarding telemedicine. Methods: Between June and September 2023, a cross-sectional study was undertaken, using an online questionnaire distributed among UAE citizens and residents aged 18 years and above. The survey aimed to gauge the perceptions, usability, and satisfaction levels of telemedicine users, alongside identifying barriers hindering its acceptance. Data analysis was performed using Python 3, using Matplotlib v3.3.4 and Pandas v1.2. Results: The data analysis encompassed 1,013 participants, among whom 66.9% (678/1,013) were familiar with telemedicine. From this group, 29.8% (202/678) had previously utilized it. Of these users, 92.3% (186/202) found it to be useful or highly useful, whereas 83.1% (168/202) expressed overall satisfaction with their telemedicine experience. Among those who had not used telemedicine (47%, 476/1,013), the predominant concerns were a preference for in-person health care consultations for better care (77%, 367/476) and uncertainty about the quality of care offered through telemedicine (62%, 296/476). Conclusions: Despite high awareness of telemedicine in the UAE, its actual usage remains limited, highlighting the necessity for increased promotional efforts. Nevertheless, positive feedback suggests considerable potential for broad adoption. Future studies should address participants' concerns to enhance telemedicine utilization in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marwah Zakariya Al Shmanee
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, Unites Arab Emirates
| | - Fatima Husni Taha
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- American Hospital Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kamel Aladdein Samara
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hiba Jawdat Barqawi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nihar Ranjan Dash
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Shibabaw AA, Chereka AA, Walle AD, Demsash AW, Dube GN, dubale AT, Kassie SY, Kitil GW, Jember MZ, Gebeyehu CD, Ariger AT, Dires EA. Knowledge of telemedicine and its associated factors among health professional in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301044. [PMID: 38635662 PMCID: PMC11025815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine is a useful tool for decreasing hospital stress, patient suffering, ambulance needs, hospital anxiety, and costs while improving the standard of care. Nonetheless, the lack of awareness regarding telemedicine poses a barrier to its application, presenting several difficulties in underdeveloped nations like Ethiopia. This review evaluates Ethiopian-specific telemedicine knowledge and associated factors. METHODS This systematic review was conducted using a search of several online databases in addition to the main databases, like Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct. The writers have looked for, reviewed, and summarized information about telemedicine knowledge in the healthcare system. This study contained seven studies that examined telemedicine knowledge in the Ethiopian healthcare sector. Studies that followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) were found using search engines. The investigation was carried out using STATA version 11. The indicator of heterogeneity (I2) was used to assess the level of heterogeneity among the included studies. The funnel plot was visually inspected, and Egger's regression test was run to check for publication bias. The pooled effect size of every study is estimated using a random-effect model meta-analysis. RESULTS Examination of 2160 studies, seven studies involving 2775 health professionals, and seven out of the 2160 publications assessed satisfied the inclusion criteria and were added to the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of Telemedicine knowledge was 45.20 (95% CI: 34.87-55.53). Whereas the pooled factor was computer training was 2.24 times (AOR = 2.24 (95%; CI: 1.64-3.08)), computer access was 2.07 times (AOR = 2.07 (95% CI: 1.50-2.87)), internet access was 3.09 times (AOR = 3.09 (95% CI: 1.34-7.13)), social media access were 3.09 times (AOR = 3.09(95%; CI: 1.34-7.13)), educational status degree and above were 2.73 times (AOR = 2.73; 95% CI: 0.85-8.82), Awareness were 3.18 times (AOR = 3.18 (95%; CI: 1.02-9.91)), Management support was 1.85 (AOR = 1.85 (95% CI: 01.25-2.75)), computer literacy were 2.90 times (AOR = 2.90 (95% CI: 1.81-4.64)), computer owner were 1.70 times (AOR = 1.70 (95% CI: 1.05-2.76)), male gender were 1.95 times (AOR = 1.95 (95% CI: 1.32-2.87)). CONCLUSION The overall pooled prevalence of telemedicine knowledge was low. Gender, education, management support, computer access, social media access, internet access, telemedicine awareness, and telemedicine training associated with telemedicine knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adamu Ambachew Shibabaw
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Alex Ayenew Chereka
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Agmasie Damtew Walle
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | | | - Geleta Nenko Dube
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Abiy Tasew dubale
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Sisay Yitayh Kassie
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Gemeda Wakgari Kitil
- Department of Midwifery, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Mesafint zewold Jember
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | | | - Aster Temesgen Ariger
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
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Elmohamady B, Omar M, El-Dakhakhny AS, Sayedahmed K, Ghazwani Y, Bin Hamri S, Alkhayal A, Alrabeeah K, Kamal W, Abbasy M, Farahat Y, Noureldin YA. Effects of first year COVID-19 pandemic on urology practice in three major Arab Countries: Sub-Analysis of a survey by Arab association of urology research group. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293458. [PMID: 38236912 PMCID: PMC10796057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic on March 11, 2020. The health care system faced tremendous challenges in providing ethical and high-quality care. The impact of COVID-19 on urological practices varied widely worldwide, including in Arab countries. This study aimed to compare the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on urology practice in Egypt, the KSA, and the UAE during the first year of the pandemic. METHODS This sub-analysis assessed the demographics and COVID-19's effects on urological practice in terms of adjustments to hospital policy, including outpatient consultations, the management of elective and urgent surgical cases, and the continuation of education across the three countries. The availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and urologists' emotional, physical, and verbal intimidation during COVID-19 were also compared. RESULTS Regarding the impact on hospital policy, consultations replaced by telemedicine were significantly higher in the KSA (36.15%), followed by the UAE (33.3%), then Egypt (10.4%) (P = 0.008). Elective cases requiring ICU admission were 65.1% in Egypt, 45.2% in the KSA, and 58.2% in the UAE and were performed only in high-risk patients. PPE was freely available in 20.8% of the Egyptian hospitals compared to 83.3% in the KSA and 81.8% in the UAE. Online courses were significantly higher in Egypt (70.8%), followed by the UAE (53%) and the KSA (41.7%) (P = 0.02). Emotional intimidation was higher than verbal intimidation, representing 80%, 75.9%, and 76% in the UAE, KSA, and Egypt, respectively. CONCLUSION This sub-analysis outlined significant hospital policy changes across the three Arab countries. Exposure to emotional, verbal, and physical intimidation was observed. The development of teleconsultations and online platforms for educational purposes was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basheer Elmohamady
- Department of Urology, Benha Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Omar
- Department of Urology, Menoufiya University Hospital, Menoufiya, Egypt
| | - Amr S. El-Dakhakhny
- Department of Urology, Benha Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Khalid Sayedahmed
- Department of Urology, Menoufiya University Hospital, Menoufiya, Egypt
| | - Yahia Ghazwani
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, KSA
- Division of Urology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, MNGHA, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Saeed Bin Hamri
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, KSA
- Division of Urology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, MNGHA, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Abdullah Alkhayal
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, KSA
- Division of Urology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, MNGHA, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Khalid Alrabeeah
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, KSA
- Division of Urology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, MNGHA, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Wissam Kamal
- Department of Urology, King Fahd Hospital, Jeddah, KSA
| | - Mohamed Abbasy
- Emergency Medicine Department, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yasser Farahat
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
- Urology Department, Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital, Umm Al Quwain, UAE
| | - Yasser A. Noureldin
- Department of Urology, Benha Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
- Division of Urology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, MNGHA, Riyadh, KSA
- Urology Department, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
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Adem JB, Melaku MS, Zeleke T, Tesfaye M, Kitila FL, Walle AD. Attitude of mental healthcare providers toward tele-psychiatry services and associated factors at public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia. Int J Ment Health Syst 2023; 17:26. [PMID: 37700358 PMCID: PMC10496341 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-023-00596-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health systems around the world are struggling with the massive numbers of people with mental disorders who require professional care. The treatment gap for mental disorders is high all over the world, with between 76 and 85% of people in low- and middle-income countries with severe mental disorders receiving no treatment for their mental health conditions. Tele-psychiatry is used as an alternative solution to the problem of limited mental health services and effective Tele-psychiatry service use may be achievable if mental health providers have a good attitude towards it. OBJECTIVE To assess the attitude of mental healthcare providers toward Tele-psychiatry services and associated factors at public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia, 2022. METHOD A Multicenter institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 413 mental health professionals working in public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa city, from May 04 to June 10, 2022. Data were collected by using a structured and self-administered questionnaire prepared by reviewing previous related studies. Epi Data version 3.1 and Stata version 14 were used for data entry and analysis respectively. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with attitudes toward Tele-psychiatry services. A statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05. RESULT A total of 413 Participants were enrolled with a response rate of 91.8%. The majority of respondents 230 (55.69%) were male and the mean age of participants was 29 years (SD + 5.02). In this study the majority (49%) of mental health care professionals had a poor attitude toward Tele-psychiatry. Having electronic health technology experience [AOR 16.79; 95% CI (4.26, 29.3)], lack of training in telemedicine applications [(AOR 0.1; 95% CI (0.01, 0.41)], a good computer uses for daily work activities [AOR 3.65; 95% CI (1.14, 11.60)], availability of e-Health technology awareness program [AOR 0.16; 95% CI (0.03, 0.90)], having a positive perception about the importance of e-Health technologies[AOR 0.041; 95% CI (0.01, 0.29)] and having good knowledge of Tele-psychiatry services [AOR 6.89; 95% CI (1.8, 12.0)] were significantly associated with attitude towards Tele-psychiatry services. CONCLUSION This study found that mental healthcare providers at a public referral hospital in Addis Ababa city generally had poor attitudes regarding Tele-psychiatry services. Considering the significant factors will improve the attitude to use tele-psychiatry services in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibril Bashir Adem
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Arsi University, Asela, Ethiopia.
| | - Mequannent Sharew Melaku
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tirualem Zeleke
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Muluken Tesfaye
- Department of Psychiatry, Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Firaol Lemessa Kitila
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Arsi University, Asela, Ethiopia
| | - Agmasie Damtew Walle
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mettu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
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Belachew EA, Getachew D, Netere AK, Gizachew E, Sendekie AK. Perception, willingness, and practices of telemedicine in patients with chronic diseases: implication of digital health in patients' perspective at a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1234436. [PMID: 37608985 PMCID: PMC10440689 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1234436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Technology-based healthcare services have important implications for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, as well as providing access to high-quality care that both the patient and the healthcare practitioner can benefit from. To access medical information, patients have also searched for methods of technology-based healthcare services like telemedicine (TM). However, little is known regarding the perceptions, willingness, and practices of TM among Ethiopian patients, especially in the study setting. Objective This study assessed the perceptions, willingness, and practice of TM among patients with chronic disease at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoGCSH), Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1 to July 30, 2022, among patients with chronic diseases who were on follow-up at the UoGCSH. Eligible participants were included in the study using a systematic random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used and recorded in the Kobo data collection tool. The collected data were managed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26. Results Out of 422 patients approached, 384 (91% response rate) were included in the final analysis. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 48.07 ± 16.17 years. The overall perceptions mean (±SD) score of the respondents was 3.92 ± 1.06. Generally, near to three-fourths (71.1%) of the participants had a positive perception of TM services, and around two-thirds (63.3%) had a willingness to be involved in the TM service. However, only around one-fourth (24.5%) of the participants were perceived to have a high level of TM practice currently. Conclusion The findings suggest that although the level of perception and willingness of TM services among patients with chronic diseases was positive, their level of practice was low. Therefore, creating awareness and suitable conditions to improve their utilization of TM could be important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyayaw Ashete Belachew
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Demis Getachew
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Adeladlew Kassie Netere
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Eshetie Gizachew
- Department of Information System, College of Informatics, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ashenafi Kibret Sendekie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Adem JB, Zeleke T, Walle AD, Atinafu WT, Tilahun KN, Melaku MS, Kebede SD. Awareness and readiness of mental healthcare providers to implement telemental health services and associated factors at public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa City, Ethiopia. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069671. [PMID: 37524552 PMCID: PMC10391830 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the awareness and readiness of mental healthcare providers to implement telemental health services and the associated factors at public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa City, Ethiopia. STUDY DESIGN A cross-sectional study was conducted among mental health professionals working at public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa City from 4 May to 10 June 2022. PARTICIPANTS A total of 413 (55.7% male and 44.3% female) health professionals participated in the study. The study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. All mental healthcare providers working at public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa City were considered as the source population. Mental healthcare providers who meet the inclusion criteria were considered the study population. Having a minimum diploma qualification and 6 months or more of work experience and giving written consent were considered the inclusion criteria. OUTCOME MEASURE The main outcome measure was awareness and readiness to implement telemental health services. RESULT A total of 413 participants were enrolled, with a response rate of 90.6%. The prevalence of good awareness towards telemental health services was 41% (95% CI 37%, 47%). Being female (adjusted OR (AOR)=0.34; 95% CI 0.15, 0.76), having poor information technology support (AOR=0.32; 95% CI 0.11, 0.99) and having electronic health technology experience (AOR=1.21; 95% CI 1.1, 2.44) were significantly associated with awareness of telemental health services, whereas computer access at the workplace (AOR=0.04; 95% CI 0.003, 0.55) and awareness (AOR=4.34; 95% CI 1.02, 18.48) and attitude (AOR=1.01; 95% CI 1.03, 2.19) towards telemental health services were the variables that showed statistically significant association with readiness of mental healthcare providers for telemental health services. CONCLUSION Although majority of healthcare providers in this survey were prepared to implement telemental health services, there was typically little awareness among mental healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tirualem Zeleke
- Department of Health Informatics, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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García-Gutiérrez FM, Pino-Zavaleta F, Romero-Robles MA, Patiño-Villena AF, Jauregui-Cornejo AS, Benites-Bullón A, Goméz-Mendoza A, Alarcon-Ruiz CA, Huapaya-Huertas O. Self-reported perceptions and knowledge of telemedicine in medical students and professionals who enrolled in an online course in Peru. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:88. [PMID: 36737732 PMCID: PMC9896674 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04058-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine has become more relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, medical students and professionals do not acquire competences in telemedicine during their training. Our objective was to describe the self-reported perception and baseline knowledge of telemedicine among medical students and professionals enrolled in a virtual course. METHODS Cross-sectional study that included physicians or medical students aged 18 years or older who were interested in a free virtual telemedicine course and who completed the data collection questionnaire. We used a Likert scale to assess the self-reported perceptions of four domains related to telemedicine. The participants were grouped into three levels for each domain: low, medium and high. We also objectively assessed telemedicine knowledge by means of 10 questions, with a cut-off point of 50% of correct answers. The Fisher's exact test, the Chi-square test, and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for the comparison of categorical data. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS We included 161 participants: 118 medical students and 43 physicians. We observed no significant differences between medical students and physicians in self-reported perceptions of knowledge, security, or utility of telemedicine. However, students had a high self-reported perception of the disadvantages of telemedicine especially related to patient security (p = 0.018), efficiency of care (p = 0.040), and the possibility of medical malpractice (p = 0.010) compared to physicians. Nearly half of the students (n = 53,44.9%) and physicians (n = 22,51.7%) answered 50% or more of the questions related to telemedicine knowledge correctly. CONCLUSION Among the physicians and medical students enrolled in the course, the students perceived the disadvantages of telemedicine more frequently. Although physicians and students have limited knowledge of telemedicine, there appears to be no influence of experience and prior training in telemedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio M García-Gutiérrez
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Medicina de La Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
- Comité Permanente Académico, Sociedad Científica Médico Estudiantil Peruana, Lima, Perú
| | - Francis Pino-Zavaleta
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Medicina de La Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
- Comité Permanente Académico, Sociedad Científica Médico Estudiantil Peruana, Lima, Perú
| | | | | | - Abigail S Jauregui-Cornejo
- Comité Permanente Académico, Sociedad Científica Médico Estudiantil Peruana, Lima, Perú
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Medicina, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas (UPC), Lima, 15067, Perú
| | | | | | - Christoper A Alarcon-Ruiz
- Unidad de Investigación Para La Generación Y Síntesis de Evidencia en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Perú
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Murshidi R, Hammouri M, Taha H, Kitaneh R, Alshneikat M, Al-Qawasmeh A, Al-Oleimat A, Al-Huneidy L, Al-Huneidy Y, Al-Ani A. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Jordanians Toward Adopting and Using Telemedicine: National Cross-sectional Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2022; 9:e41499. [DOI: 10.2196/41499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Due to the upsurge of COVID-19, nations are increasingly adopting telemedicine programs in anticipation of similar crises. Similar to all nations worldwide, Jordan is implementing efforts to adopt such technologies, yet it is far from complete.
Objective
This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of Jordanians toward telemedicine, to identify key factors predisposing individuals to its use or acting as barriers to its implementation.
Methods
We implemented a cross-sectional design using an online, self-administered questionnaire executed in Google Forms and distributed through social media. Differences in knowledge and attitude scores were examined using independent sample t tests and ANOVA. A multivariate linear regression model was computed to assess predictors of awareness toward telemedicine.
Results
A total of 1201 participants fully completed the questionnaire. Participants were characterized by a mean age of 36.3 (SD 14.4) years and a male-to-female ratio of nearly 1:1. About 50% (619/1201, 51.5%) of our studied population were aware of telemedicine, while nearly 25% (299/1201, 24.9%) declared they had observed it in action. Approximatively 68% (814/1201, 67.8%) of respondents were willing to use telemedicine. The majority of the sample portrayed favorable and positive views toward telemedicine. Higher educational degrees, living in urban districts, and having a higher perception of electronic usage ability were associated with higher knowledge and better attitudes toward telemedicine (all P<.05). The multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that perceived ability to use electronics was associated with positive attitudes (β=0.394; 95% CI 0.224 to 0.563), while living in Southern Jordan predicted poor attitudes toward telemedicine (β=–2.896; 95% CI –4.873 to –0.919).
Conclusions
Jordanians portray favorable perceptions of telemedicine. Nonetheless, concerns with regards to privacy, medical errors, and capacity for accurate diagnoses are prevalent. Furthermore, Jordanians believe that integrating telemedicine within the health care system is not applicable due to limited resources.
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Wubante SM, Tegegne MD. Health professionals knowledge of telemedicine and its associated factors working at private hospitals in resource-limited settings. Front Digit Health 2022; 4:976566. [PMID: 36186679 PMCID: PMC9523600 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2022.976566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The appropriate implementation of telemedicine in the healthcare system has the potential to overcome global problems such as accessibility and quality healthcare services. Thus assessing the knowledge of health professionals before the actual adoption of telemedicine is considered a prominent solution to the problems. Objective This study aimed to assess healthcare professionals' knowledge of telemedicine and its associated factors at private hospitals in low-resource settings. Method An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 health professionals at private hospitals in low-income settings in Ethiopia, from March to April 2021. Data collection was performed by pretested and self-administered questionnaires. This study employed statistical packages for social sciences software. This study employed multivariable logistic regression to determine dependent and independent variables associated with adjusted odd ratio and 95% CI. Result in this study about 65.8% of health professionals have good knowledge on Telemedicine .Computer literacy (AOR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.8, 4.6), computer training (AOR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.2, 3.3), Internet availability at workplace (AOR = 2.1; 95%CI: 1.3, 3.4), had private laptop (AOR = 1.7; 95% CI: 1.1, 2.9) were significantly associated with knowledge. Conclusion and recommendation In general health professionals had good knowledge of Telemedicine. Inclusive packages of capacity by training among health providers are fundamental for the successful implementation of telemedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisay Maru Wubante
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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