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Acezat Oliva J, Alarcón Belmonte I, Paredes Costa EJ, Albiol Perarnau M, Goussens A, Vidal-Alaball J. [Teleconsultation: finding its place in primary care]. Aten Primaria 2024; 56:102927. [PMID: 38608402 PMCID: PMC11019093 DOI: 10.1016/j.aprim.2024.102927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Teleconsultation is a remote health consultation using information and communication technologies. There are different modalities and specific practical and communication skills are required. Notwithstanding its prominence in Spain, there is little evidence on teleconsultation. This article explores the applicability, barriers, facilitators and future challenges of teleconsultation. While it has the potential to improve access to healthcare, as well as save time and costs for both patients and healthcare professionals, it faces a number of challenges such as the digital divide and resistance to change. To address new challenges and overcome obstacles, it is crucial to gain the trust of patients and professionals. Improving training in the skills required to optimize their use is also essential. Future research should aim to provide robust evidence regarding safety and cost-effectiveness to ensure successful implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Acezat Oliva
- Grup de Salut Digital CAMFIC, Barcelona, España; Servei d'Atenció Primària Dreta i Muntanya, Gerència Territorial Barcelona ciutat, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, España
| | - Iris Alarcón Belmonte
- Grup de Salut Digital CAMFIC, Barcelona, España; Servei d'Atenció Primària Dreta i Muntanya, Gerència Territorial Barcelona ciutat, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, España
| | - Eugeni Joan Paredes Costa
- Grup de Salut Digital CAMFIC, Barcelona, España; Equip d'Atenció Primària Onze de Setembre, Lleida-7 Direcció d'Atenció Primària Lleida. Institut Català de la Salut, Lleida, España; Facultat de Medicina. Universitat de Lleida, Lleida, España.
| | - Marc Albiol Perarnau
- Grup de Salut Digital CAMFIC, Barcelona, España; Centre d'Atenció Primària Cornellà de Llobregat. Servei d'Atenció Primària Baix Llobregat, Metropolitana Sud. Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, España
| | - Alyson Goussens
- Grup de Salut Digital CAMFIC, Barcelona, España; CAP Ernest Lluch. Figueres. Servei d'Atenció Primària Girona Nord. Atenció Primària Girona Institut Català de la Salut, Girona, España
| | - Josep Vidal-Alaball
- Grup de Salut Digital CAMFIC, Barcelona, España; Unitat de Suport a la Recerca de la Catalunya Central, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina, Sant Fruitós de Bages, Barcelona, España; Grup de Recerca Promoció de la Salut en l'Àmbit Rural, Gerència Territorial de la Catalunya Central, Institut Català de la Salut, Sant Fruitós de Bages, Barcelona, España; Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Vic, Barcelona, España
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Spithoff S, McPhail B, Vesely L, Rowe RK, Mogic L, Grundy Q. How the commercial virtual care industry gathers, uses and values patient data: a Canadian qualitative study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e074019. [PMID: 38331904 PMCID: PMC10860095 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand and report on the direct-to-consumer virtual care industry in Canada, focusing on how companies collect, use and value patient data. DESIGN Qualitative study using situational analysis methodology. SETTING Canadian for-profit virtual care industry. PARTICIPANTS 18 individuals employed by or affiliated with the Canadian virtual care industry. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted between October 2021 and January 2022 and publicly available documents on websites of commercial virtual care platforms were retrieved. Analysis was informed by situational analysis, a constructivist grounded theory methodology, with a continuous and iterative process of data collection and analysis; theoretical sampling and creation of theoretical concepts to explain findings. RESULTS Participants described how companies in the virtual care industry highly valued patient data. Companies used data collected as patients accessed virtual care platforms and registered for services to generate revenue, often by marketing other products and services. In some cases, virtual care companies were funded by pharmaceutical companies to analyse data collected when patients interacted with a healthcare provider and adjust care pathways with the goal of increasing uptake of a drug or vaccine. Participants described these business practices as expected and appropriate, but some were concerned about patient privacy, industry influence over care and risks to marginalised communities. They described how patients may have agreed to these uses of their data because of high levels of trust in the Canadian health system, problematic consent processes and a lack of other options for care. CONCLUSIONS Patients, healthcare providers and policy-makers should be aware that the direct-to-consumer virtual care industry in Canada highly values patient data and appears to view data as a revenue stream. The industry's data handling practices of this sensitive information, in the context of providing a health service, have implications for patient privacy, autonomy and quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl Spithoff
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brenda McPhail
- Faculty of Social Sciences, McMaster University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Robyn K Rowe
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lana Mogic
- Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Quinn Grundy
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Lubomski J, Malchrzak W, Babicki M, Kłoda K, Suwała S, Mastalerz-Migas A. Teleconsultation as a Modern Form of Health Care Service in the Case of Poland: Assessment of Its Potential Use from the Perspective of Health Care Providers and Patients. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:234-241. [PMID: 37406293 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has facilitated access to health care services through telemedicine in Poland, where it has not been a common approach so far. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate telemedicine as a form of health care provision in the Polish health care system. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to 2,318 patients and health care workers. Questions included telemedical services usage, attitude toward telemedical consultations, who should decide about the nature of the consultation, advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine, the possibility of teleconsultations remaining available after the pandemic, and the subjective perception of overuse of remote consultations by doctors. Results: In general, respondents approved of teleconsultations (3.62 on 1-5 scale) but specific clinical situations gained higher and lower scores-among the highest ranking were prescription renewal (4.68), interpretation of examination results (4.15), and treatment continuation/follow-up (3.81). Among least ranking were consulting children 2-6 years old (1.93) and children younger than 2 years old (1.55) as well as consulting acute symptoms (1.47). Health care workers rated their general attitude significantly higher than nonhealth care workers toward telemedicine consults (3.91 vs. 3.34, p < 0.001) and toward 12 out of 13 specific clinical situations and settings (p < 0.001). The only exception was "consulting acute symptoms," which received exactly the same rating within both groups (1.47, p = 0.99). Most respondents agreed that teleconsultations should remain an option for contacting a physician regardless of the epidemic situation. Each group declared that they should be the one to decide about the consultation form. Conclusions: Results of this study could help optimize and facilitate telemedical consultation usage after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Lubomski
- Ma-na-ma Huisartsgeneeskunde, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wojciech Malchrzak
- Department of Family Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Babicki
- Department of Family Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Szymon Suwała
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Collegium Medicum, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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Srivastava D, Van Kessel R, Delgrange M, Cherla A, Sood H, Mossialos E. A Framework for Digital Health Policy: Insights from Virtual Primary Care Systems Across Five Nations. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000382. [PMID: 37939131 PMCID: PMC10631700 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Digital health technologies used in primary care, referred to as, virtual primary care, allow patients to interact with primary healthcare professionals remotely though the current iteration of virtual primary care may also come with several unintended consequences, such as accessibility barriers and cream skimming. The World Health Organization (WHO) has a well-established framework to understand the functional components of health systems. However, the existing building blocks framework does not sufficiently account for the disruptive and multi-modal impact of digital transformations. In this review, we aimed to develop the first iteration of this updated framework by reviewing the deployment of virtual primary care systems in five leading countries: Canada, Finland, Germany and Sweden and the United Kingdom (England). We found that all five countries have taken different approaches with the deployment of virtual primary care, yet seven common themes were highlighted across countries: (1) stated policy objectives, (2) regulation and governance, (3) financing and reimbursement, (4) delivery and integration, (5) workforce training and support, (6) IT systems and data sharing, and (7) the extent of patient involvement in the virtual primary care system. The conceptual framework that was derived from these findings offers a set of guiding principles that can facilitate the assessment of virtual primary care in health system settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Srivastava
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
- LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin Van Kessel
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
- LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
- Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Marine Delgrange
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and NHS Leadership Academy, London, United Kingdom
| | - Avi Cherla
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
| | - Harpreet Sood
- LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
| | - Elias Mossialos
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
- LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, United Kingdom
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Srivastava D, Henschke C, Virtanen L, Lotman EM, Friebel R, Ardito V, Petracca F. Promoting the systematic use of real-world data and real-world evidence for digital health technologies across Europe: a consensus framework. HEALTH ECONOMICS, POLICY, AND LAW 2023; 18:395-410. [PMID: 37705236 DOI: 10.1017/s1744133123000208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite the acceleration in the use of digital health technologies across different aspects of the healthcare system, the full potential of real-world data (RWD) and real-world evidence (RWE) arising from the technologies is not being utilised in decision-making. We examine current national efforts and future opportunities to systematically use RWD and RWE in decision-making in five countries (Estonia, Finland, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom), and then develop a framework for promotion of the systematic use of RWD and RWE. A review assesses current national efforts, complemented with a three-round consensus-building exercise among an international group of experts (n1 = 44, n2 = 24, n3 = 24) to derive key principles. We find that Estonia and Finland have invested and developed digital health-related policies for several years; Germany and Italy are the more recent arrivals, while the United Kingdom falls somewhere in the middle. Opportunities to promote the systematic use of RWD and RWE were identified for each country. Eight building blocks principles were agreed through consensus, relating to policy scope, institutional role and data collection. Promoting post-market surveillance and digital health technology vigilance ought to rely on clarity in scope and data collection with consensus reached on eight principles to leverage RWD and RWE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Srivastava
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Cornelia Henschke
- Deptartment of Health Care Management, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin Centre for Health Economics Research (BerlinHECOR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Lotta Virtanen
- Welfare State Research and Reform Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eno-Martin Lotman
- Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Rocco Friebel
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Vittoria Ardito
- Center for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), SDA Bocconi School of Management, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesco Petracca
- Center for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), SDA Bocconi School of Management, Milano, Italy
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Adams TL, Leslie K. Regulating for-profit virtual care in Canada: Implications for medical profession regulators and policy-makers. Healthc Manage Forum 2023; 36:113-118. [PMID: 36421019 PMCID: PMC9975815 DOI: 10.1177/08404704221134872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
For-profit virtual medical care has been expanding rapidly in Canada, creating new societal and practical challenges requiring policy and regulatory reform. We mapped the current state of regulatory policy across 10 Canadian provinces by analyzing practice standards and guidelines for virtual care from medical profession regulators. Through a comparative framework, we assessed the extent to which virtual practice policies addressed issues around mobility and licensure, equitable access, privacy, complaints, and continuity of care. We also compared these regulatory documents to the model standards from the Canadian medical regulatory consortium and considered implications for practicing in for-profit virtual environments. We found considerable variation across provincial regulatory bodies, with most existing frameworks not adequately addressing equity, access, and practitioner competency and not providing flexible, nuanced, or risk-based approaches to virtual care provision. As we compared jurisdictions, we identified gaps and leading practices to inform recommendations for professional regulators and policy-makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey L. Adams
- Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Tracey L. Adams, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. E-mail:
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Ramond-Roquin A, Gautier S, Le Breton J, Bourgueil Y, Bouchez T. French General Practitioners' Adaptations for Patients with Suspected COVID-19 in May 2020. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1896. [PMID: 36767262 PMCID: PMC9914740 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In France, towards the end of the first lockdown, COVID-19 management was largely transferred from hospitals to primary care. Primary care actors adapted their practices to ensure patients' access to care, while limiting contamination. In this study, we aimed to identify patterns of adaptations implemented by French general practitioners (GPs) in May 2020 for outpatients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19, and factors associated with these adaptions. A French survey concerning care organization adaptations, and individual, organizational, and territorial characteristics, was sent to GPs. Data were analyzed by multiple correspondence analysis followed by agglomerative hierarchical clustering to identify GPs' adaptation clusters. A multinomial logistic regression model estimated the associations between clusters and individual, organizational, and territorial factors. Finally, 3068 surveys were analyzed (5.8% of French GPs). Four GPs' adaptation clusters were identified: autonomous medical reorganization (64.2% of responders), interprofessional reorganization (15.9%), use of hospital (5.1%), and collaboration with COVID-19 outpatient centers (14.8%). Age, practice type and size, and territorial features were significantly associated with adaptation clusters. Our results suggest that healthcare systems should consider organizational features of primary care to effectively deal with future challenges, including healthcare crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, but also those linked to epidemiologic and societal changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Ramond-Roquin
- Département de Médecine Générale, University Angers, F-49000 Angers, France
- Univ. Angers, Univ. Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)-UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, F-49000 Angers, France
- Collège National des Généralistes Enseignants (CNGE), F-75000 Paris, France
- Département de Médecine de Famille et de Médecine d’Urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Sylvain Gautier
- Inserm U1018, CESP, Primary Care and Prevention, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin, Paris-Saclay University, F-94807 Villejuif, France
- Mission RESPIRE, EHESP-CNAMTS-IRDES–EA MOS 7348 EHESP, F-93210 Saint-Denis, France
- Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Hospital Raymond Poincaré, F-92380 Garches, France
| | - Julien Le Breton
- Inserm, IMRB, CEpiA, University Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne, F-94010 Créteil, France
- Department of General Practice, Faculty of Health, University Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne, F-94010 Créteil, France
- French Society of General Medicine (SFMG), F-92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux, France
- Institut Jean-François REY (IJFR), F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Yann Bourgueil
- Mission RESPIRE, EHESP-CNAMTS-IRDES–EA MOS 7348 EHESP, F-93210 Saint-Denis, France
- Institute for Health Research and Documentation (IRDES), F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Tiphanie Bouchez
- Department of Education and Research in General Practice, RETINES, HEALTHY, Université Côte d’Azur, F-06000 Nice, France
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Leung T, Greenhalgh T, Hughes G, Finlay T, Wherton J. Desperately Seeking Intersectionality in Digital Health Disparity Research: Narrative Review to Inform a Richer Theorization of Multiple Disadvantage. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e42358. [PMID: 36383632 PMCID: PMC9773024 DOI: 10.2196/42358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital consultations between patients and clinicians increased markedly during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising questions about equity. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to review the literature on how multiple disadvantage-specifically, older age, lower socioeconomic status, and limited English proficiency-has been conceptualized, theorized, and studied empirically in relation to digital consultations. We focused mainly on video consultations as they have wider disparities than telephone consultations and relevant data on e-consultations are sparse. METHODS Using keyword and snowball searching, we identified relevant papers published between 2012 and 2022 using Ovid MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. The first search was completed in July 2022. Papers meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed thematically and summarized, and their key findings were tabulated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research criteria. Explanations for digital disparities were critically examined, and a search was undertaken in October 2022 to identify theoretical lenses on multiple disadvantage. RESULTS Of 663 articles from the initial search, 27 (4.1%) met our inclusion criteria. In total, 37% (10/27) were commentaries, and 63% (17/27) were peer-reviewed empirical studies (11/27, 41% quantitative; 5/27, 19% qualitative; 1/27, 4% mixed methods; 1/27, 4% systematic reviews; and 1/27, 4% narrative reviews). Empirical studies were mostly small, rapidly conducted, and briefly reported. Most studies (25/27, 93%) identified marked digital disparities but lacked a strong theoretical lens. Proposed solutions focused on identifying and removing barriers, but the authors generally overlooked the pervasive impact of multiple layers of disadvantage. The data set included no theoretically informed studies that examined how different dimensions of disadvantage combined to affect digital health disparities. In our subsequent search, we identified 3 theoretical approaches that might help account for these digital disparities. Fundamental cause theory by Link and Phelan addresses why the association between socioeconomic status and health is pervasive and persists over time. Digital capital theory by Ragnedda and Ruiu explains how people mobilize resources to participate in digitally mediated activities and services. Intersectionality theory by Crenshaw states that systems of oppression are inherently bound together, creating singular social experiences for people who bear the force of multiple adverse social structures. CONCLUSIONS A limitation of our initial sample was the sparse and undertheorized nature of the primary literature. The lack of attention to how digital health disparities emerge and play out both within and across categories of disadvantage means that solutions proposed to date may be oversimplistic and insufficient. Theories of multiple disadvantage have bearing on digital health, and there may be others of relevance besides those discussed in this paper. We call for greater interdisciplinary dialogue between theoretical research on multiple disadvantage and empirical studies on digital health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Trisha Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Hughes
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Teresa Finlay
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Wherton
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Pickard Strange M, Booth A, Akiki M, Wieringa S, Shaw SE. The role of virtual consulting in developing environmentally sustainable healthcare: a systematic literature review (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 25:e44823. [PMID: 37133914 DOI: 10.2196/44823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health systems globally need to rapidly set and achieve targets for reaching net zero carbon emissions. Virtual consulting (including video- and telephone-based consulting) is regarded as one means by which this might be achieved, largely through reduced patient travel. Little is currently known about the ways in which forms of virtual consulting might contribute to the net zero agenda or how countries may develop and implement programs at scale that can support increased environmental sustainability. OBJECTIVE In this paper, we asked, What is the impact of virtual consulting on environmental sustainability in health care? and What can we learn from current evaluations that can inform future reductions in carbon emissions? METHODS We conducted a systematic review of published literature according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We searched the MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scopus databases using key terms relating to "carbon footprint," "environmental impact," "telemedicine," and "remote consulting," using citation tracking to identify additional articles. The articles were screened, and full texts that met the inclusion criteria were obtained. Data on the approach to carbon footprinting reported reductions in emissions, and the opportunities and challenges associated with the environmental sustainability of virtual consultations were extracted into a spreadsheet, analyzed thematically, and theorized using the Planning and Evaluating Remote Consultation Services framework to consider the various interacting influences, including environmental sustainability, that shape the adoption of virtual consulting services. RESULTS A total of 1672 papers were identified. After removing duplicates and screening for eligibility, 23 papers that focused on a range of virtual consulting equipment and platforms across different clinical conditions and services were included. The focus on the environmental sustainability potential of virtual consulting was unanimously reported through carbon savings achieved by a reduction in travel related to face-to-face appointments. The shortlisted papers used a range of methods and assumptions to determine carbon savings, reporting these using different units and across varied sample sizes. This limited the potential for comparison. Despite methodological inconsistencies, all papers concluded that virtual consulting significantly reduced carbon emissions. However, there was limited consideration of wider factors (eg, patient suitability, clinical indication, and organizational infrastructure) influencing the adoption, use, and spread of virtual consultations and the carbon footprint of the entire clinical pathway in which the virtual consultation was provided (eg, risk of missed diagnoses from virtual consultations that result in the need for subsequent in-person consultations or admissions). CONCLUSIONS There is overwhelming evidence that virtual consulting can reduce health care carbon emissions, largely through reducing travel related to in-person appointments. However, the current evidence fails to look at system factors associated with implementing virtual health care delivery and wider research into carbon emissions across the entire clinical pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Pickard Strange
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Booth
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Melissa Akiki
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sietse Wieringa
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sara E Shaw
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Feldmeier G, Löffler C, Altiner A, Wollny A, von Podewils F, Ritzke M. Audiovisual teleconsultation for patients with epilepsy in primary care in rural Germany: a pilot study on feasibility and acceptance. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:213. [PMID: 36131332 PMCID: PMC9490945 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-01171-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In rural areas, epilepsy patients have limited access to specialist secondary care. Substantial travel and waiting times of several hours are common. Communication between general practitioners (GP) and specialist epileptologists regarding diagnosis and treatment is further complicated by the high workload on both sides and the different prioritisation of treatment goals. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of an interprofessional audiovisual patient-doctor teleconsultation, and its acceptance in clinical practice in patients with epilepsy in a rural region in Germany. Method Ten patients participated in telemedicine consultations in their GP practice. The practice was located in a sparsely populated region of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and was equipped with technical equipment specifically procured for the project. An explorative qualitative interview was conducted with all participants. We based this paper on the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ). Results Despite initial uncertainties on the patients’ side regarding the consultation setting, all participants found the teleconsultation helpful. Some patients were initially intimidated and felt slightly overwhelmed by the attention provided and the technology used (multiple HD cameras, large high-resolution screens). However, during the consultation, they felt supported by their GP and were satisfied that their needs were addressed in an appropriate and timely manner. The hardware used was not felt to be a nuisance or to interfere with the conversation between doctor and patient. Patients also appreciated the time saved and the organisational convenience compared to a visit to a university outpatient clinic. Most consultations led to therapeutic consequences. Some patients seemed to benefit particularly, for example those who needed a medication change. Conclusion This pilot study provides first evidence that teleconsultations between patients, specialists, and GPs are possible in rural areas. Interprofessional collaboration between GPs and epileptologists can improve the care of patients with epilepsy. Further research should investigate the effectiveness and efficiency of interprofessional telemedicine consultations for epilepsy and other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Feldmeier
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, Doberaner Str. 142, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
| | - Christin Löffler
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, Doberaner Str. 142, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Attila Altiner
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, Doberaner Str. 142, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Anja Wollny
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, Doberaner Str. 142, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Felix von Podewils
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Manuela Ritzke
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, Doberaner Str. 142, 18057, Rostock, Germany
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Alami H, Lehoux P, Shaw SE, Papoutsi C, Rybczynska-Bunt S, Fortin JP. Virtual Care and the Inverse Care Law: Implications for Policy, Practice, Research, Public and Patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191710591. [PMID: 36078313 PMCID: PMC9518297 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Virtual care spread rapidly at the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Restricting in-person contact contributed to reducing the spread of infection and saved lives. However, the benefits of virtual care were not evenly distributed within and across social groups, and existing inequalities became exacerbated for those unable to fully access to, or benefit from virtual services. This "perspective" paper discusses the extent to which challenges in virtual care access and use in the context of COVID-19 follow the Inverse Care Law. The latter stipulates that the availability and quality of health care is inversely proportionate to the level of population health needs. We highlight the inequalities affecting some disadvantaged populations' access to, and use of public and private virtual care, and contrast this with a utopian vision of technology as the "solution to everything". In public and universal health systems, the Inverse Care Law may manifests itself in access issues, capacity, and/or lack of perceived benefit to use digital technologies, as well as in data poverty. For commercial "Direct-To-Consumer" services, all of the above may be encouraged via a consumerist (i.e., profit-oriented) approach, limited and episodic services, or the use of low direct cost platforms. With virtual care rapidly growing, we set out ways forward for policy, practice, and research to ensure virtual care benefits for everyone, which include: (1) pay more attention to "capabilities" supporting access and use of virtual care; (2) consider digital technologies as a basic human right that should be automatically taken into account, not only in health policies, but also in social policies; (3) take more seriously the impact of the digital economy on equity, notably through a greater state involvement in co-constructing "public health value" through innovation; and (4) reconsider the dominant digital innovation research paradigm to better recognize the contexts, factors, and conditions that influence access to and use of virtual care by different groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassane Alami
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Pascale Lehoux
- Center for Public Health Research and Department of Health Management, Evaluation and Policy, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Sara E. Shaw
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Chrysanthi Papoutsi
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Sarah Rybczynska-Bunt
- Community and Primary Care Research Group, Faculty of Health, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL6 8BX, UK
| | - Jean-Paul Fortin
- VITAM Research Centre on Sustainable Health, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, QC G1J 2G1, Canada
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12
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Razavi S, Farrokhnia N, Davoody N. Nurses’ experience of using video consultation in a digital care setting and its impact on their workflow and communication. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264876. [PMID: 35552539 PMCID: PMC9098015 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sweden as many other countries uses video consultation to increase patients’ access to primary healthcare services particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Working in digital care settings and using new technologies, in this case video consultations, require learning new skills and adoption to new workflow. The aim of this study is to explore nurses’ experience of using video consultation in a digital care setting and its impact on their workflow and communication. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were carried out with registered nurses recruited from a private digital healthcare provider. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using an abductive approach. Nurses’ workflow was modeled, and several categories and subcategories were identified: nurses’ workflow (efficiency, flexibility, and information accessibility); communication (interaction with patients and interprofessional communication); user experience (change and development of the platform, challenges, and combining digital and physical care). Even though providing online care has its limitations, the nurses were positive towards using video consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- SeyedehMaryam Razavi
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nasim Farrokhnia
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nadia Davoody
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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13
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Torp DC, Sandbæk A, Prætorius T. Technology acceptance of video consultations for Type 2 diabetes care in general practice: a cross-sectional survey of Danish general practitioners (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e37223. [PMID: 36040765 PMCID: PMC9472039 DOI: 10.2196/37223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cæsar Torp
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Annelli Sandbæk
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thim Prætorius
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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14
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Telehealth and Artificial Intelligence Insights into Healthcare during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10020385. [PMID: 35206998 PMCID: PMC8871559 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Soon after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic was proclaimed, digital health services were widely adopted to respond to this public health emergency, including comprehensive monitoring technologies, telehealth, creative diagnostic, and therapeutic decision-making methods. The World Health Organization suggested that artificial intelligence might be a valuable way of dealing with the crisis. Artificial intelligence is an essential technology of the fourth industrial revolution that is a critical nonmedical intervention for overcoming the present global health crisis, developing next-generation pandemic preparation, and regaining resilience. While artificial intelligence has much potential, it raises fundamental privacy, transparency, and safety concerns. This study seeks to address these issues and looks forward to an intelligent healthcare future based on best practices and lessons learned by employing telehealth and artificial intelligence during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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15
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Silva CRDV, Lopes RH, de Goes Bay O, Martiniano CS, Fuentealba-Torres M, Arcêncio RA, Lapão LV, Dias S, Uchoa SADC. Digital health opportunities to improve Primary Health Care in the context of COVID-19: A Scoping Review (Preprint). JMIR Hum Factors 2021; 9:e35380. [PMID: 35319466 PMCID: PMC9159467 DOI: 10.2196/35380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic brought social, economic, and health impacts, requiring fast adaptation of health systems. Although information and communication technologies were essential for achieving this objective, the extent to which health systems incorporated this technology is unknown. Objective The aim of this study was to map the use of digital health strategies in primary health care worldwide and their impact on quality of care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We performed a scoping review based on the Joanna Briggs Institute manual and guided by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) Extension for Scoping Reviews. A systematic and comprehensive three-step search was performed in June and July 2021 in multidisciplinary health science databases and the gray literature. Data extraction and eligibility were performed by two authors independently and interpreted using thematic analysis. Results A total of 44 studies were included and six thematic groups were identified: characterization and geographic distribution of studies; nomenclatures of digital strategies adopted; types of information and communication technologies; characteristics of digital strategies in primary health care; impacts on quality of care; and benefits, limitations, and challenges of digital strategies in primary health care. The impacts on organization of quality of care were investigated by the majority of studies, demonstrating the strengthening of (1) continuity of care; (2) economic, social, geographical, time, and cultural accessibility; (3) coordination of care; (4) access; (5) integrality of care; (6) optimization of appointment time; (7) and efficiency. Negative impacts were also observed in the same dimensions, such as reduced access to services and increased inequity and unequal use of services offered, digital exclusion of part of the population, lack of planning for defining the role of professionals, disarticulation of actions with real needs of the population, fragile articulation between remote and face-to-face modalities, and unpreparedness of professionals to meet demands using digital technologies. Conclusions The results showed the positive and negative impacts of remote strategies on quality of care in primary care and the inability to take advantage of the potential of technologies. This may demonstrate differences in the organization of fast and urgent implementation of digital strategies in primary health care worldwide. Primary health care must strengthen its response capacity, expand the use of information and communication technologies, and manage challenges using scientific evidence since digital health is important and must be integrated into public service.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rayssa Horácio Lopes
- Department of Collective Health, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Osvaldo de Goes Bay
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Trairi, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Santa Cruz, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ricardo Alexandre Arcêncio
- Department of Maternal Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Luís Velez Lapão
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unidade de Investigação e Desenvolvimento em Engenharia Mecanica e Industrial, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sonia Dias
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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16
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Milos Nymberg V, Ellegård LM, Kjellsson G, Wolff M, Borgström Bolmsjö B, Wallman T, Calling S. Trends in remote health care consumption in Sweden: A comparison before and during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. JMIR Hum Factors 2021; 9:e33034. [PMID: 34846304 PMCID: PMC8812677 DOI: 10.2196/33034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Remote assessment of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) has been a controversial topic during the fast development of private telemedicine providers in Swedish primary health care. The possibility to unburden the traditional care has been put against a questionable quality of care as well as risks of increased utilization and costs. The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to a changed management of patient care to decrease viral spread, with an expected shift in contact types from in-person to remote ones. Objective The main aim of this study was to compare health care consumption and type of contacts (in-person or remote) for RTIs before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The second aim was to study whether the number of follow-up contacts after an index contact for RTIs changed during the study period, and whether the number of follow-up contacts differed if the index contact was in-person or remote. A third aim was to study whether the pattern of follow-up contacts differed depending on whether the index contact was with a traditional or a private telemedicine provider. Methods The study design was an observational retrospective analysis with a description of all index contacts and follow-up contacts with physicians in primary care and emergency rooms in a Swedish region (Skåne) for RTIs including patients of all ages and comparison for the same periods in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Results Compared with 2018 and 2019, there were fewer index contacts for RTIs per 1000 inhabitants in 2020. By contrast, the number of follow-up contacts, both per 1000 inhabitants and per index contact, was higher in 2020. The composition of both index and follow-up contacts changed as the share of remote contacts, in particular for traditional care providers, increased. Conclusions During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, fewer index contacts for RTIs but more follow-up contacts were conducted, compared with 2018-2019. The share of both index and follow-up contacts that were conducted remotely increased. Further studies are needed to study the reasons behind the increase in remote contacts, and if it will last after the pandemic, and more clinical guidelines for remote assessments of RTI are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Milos Nymberg
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, SE
| | - Lina Maria Ellegård
- Department of eEconomics, Lund University, Lund, SE.,Department of Business Administration, Kristianstad University, Kristianstad, SE
| | - Gustav Kjellsson
- Department of Economics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, SE
| | - Moa Wolff
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, SE
| | - Beata Borgström Bolmsjö
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, SE
| | - Thorne Wallman
- Public Health & Caring Sciences, Family Medicine & Preventive Medicine Section, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE
| | - Susanna Calling
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, SE
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17
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Knop M, Mueller M, Niehaves B. Investigating the Use of Telemedicine for Digitally Mediated Delegation in Team-Based Primary Care: Mixed Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e28151. [PMID: 34435959 PMCID: PMC8430853 DOI: 10.2196/28151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Owing to the shortage of medical professionals, as well as demographic and structural challenges, new care models have emerged to find innovative solutions to counter medical undersupply. Team-based primary care using medical delegation appears to be a promising approach to address these challenges; however, it demands efficient communication structures and mechanisms to reinsure patients and caregivers receive a delegated, treatment-related task. Digital health care technologies hold the potential to render these novel processes effective and demand driven. Objective The goal of this study is to recreate the daily work routines of general practitioners (GPs) and medical assistants (MAs) to explore promising approaches for the digital moderation of delegation processes and to deepen the understanding of subjective and perceptual factors that influence their technology assessment and use. Methods We conducted a combination of 19 individual and group interviews with 12 GPs and 14 MAs, seeking to identify relevant technologies for delegation purposes as well as stakeholders’ perceptions of their effectiveness. Furthermore, a web-based survey was conducted asking the interviewees to order identified technologies based on their assessed applicability in multi-actor patient care. Interview data were analyzed using a three-fold inductive coding procedure. Multidimensional scaling was applied to analyze and visualize the survey data, leading to a triangulation of the results. Results Our results suggest that digital mediation of delegation underlies complex, reciprocal processes and biases that need to be identified and analyzed to improve the development and distribution of innovative technologies and to improve our understanding of technology use in team-based primary care. Nevertheless, medical delegation enhanced by digital technologies, such as video consultations, portable electrocardiograms, or telemedical stethoscopes, can counteract current challenges in primary care because of its unique ability to ensure both personal, patient-centered care for patients and create efficient and needs-based treatment processes. Conclusions Technology-mediated delegation appears to be a promising approach to implement innovative, case-sensitive, and cost-effective ways to treat patients within the paradigm of primary care. The relevance of such innovative approaches increases with the tremendous need for differentiated and effective care, such as during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. For the successful and sustainable adoption of innovative technologies, MAs represent essential team members. In their role as mediators between GPs and patients, MAs are potentially able to counteract patients’ resistance toward using innovative technology and compensate for patients’ limited access to technology and care facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Knop
- Chair of Information Systems, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Marius Mueller
- Chair of Information Systems, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Bjoern Niehaves
- Chair of Information Systems, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
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18
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Greenhalgh T, Rosen R, Shaw SE, Byng R, Faulkner S, Finlay T, Grundy E, Husain L, Hughes G, Leone C, Moore L, Papoutsi C, Pope C, Rybczynska-Bunt S, Rushforth A, Wherton J, Wieringa S, Wood GW. Planning and Evaluating Remote Consultation Services: A New Conceptual Framework Incorporating Complexity and Practical Ethics. Front Digit Health 2021; 3:726095. [PMID: 34713199 PMCID: PMC8521880 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2021.726095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Establishing and running remote consultation services is challenging politically (interest groups may gain or lose), organizationally (remote consulting requires implementation work and new roles and workflows), economically (costs and benefits are unevenly distributed across the system), technically (excellent care needs dependable links and high-quality audio and images), relationally (interpersonal interactions are altered), and clinically (patients are unique, some examinations require contact, and clinicians have deeply-held habits, dispositions and norms). Many of these challenges have an under-examined ethical dimension. In this paper, we present a novel framework, Planning and Evaluating Remote Consultation Services (PERCS), built from a literature review and ongoing research. PERCS has 7 domains-the reason for consulting, the patient, the clinical relationship, the home and family, technologies, staff, the healthcare organization, and the wider system-and considers how these domains interact and evolve over time as a complex system. It focuses attention on the organization's digital maturity and digital inclusion efforts. We have found that both during and beyond the pandemic, policymakers envisaged an efficient, safe and accessible remote consultation service delivered through state-of-the art digital technologies and implemented via rational allocation criteria and quality standards. In contrast, our empirical data reveal that strategic decisions about establishing remote consultation services, allocation decisions for appointment type (phone, video, e-, face-to-face), and clinical decisions when consulting remotely are fraught with contradictions and tensions-for example, between demand management and patient choice-leading to both large- and small-scale ethical dilemmas for managers, support staff, and clinicians. These dilemmas cannot be resolved by standard operating procedures or algorithms. Rather, they must be managed by attending to here-and-now practicalities and emergent narratives, drawing on guiding principles applied with contextual judgement. We complement the PERCS framework with a set of principles for informing its application in practice, including education of professionals and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sara E. Shaw
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Byng
- Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart Faulkner
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Teresa Finlay
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Laiba Husain
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Hughes
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lucy Moore
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chrysanthi Papoutsi
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Pope
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Rybczynska-Bunt
- Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Rushforth
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Wherton
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sietse Wieringa
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Gary W. Wood
- Independent Research Consultant, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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19
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Winward S, Patel T, Al-Saffar M, Noble M. The Effect of 24/7, Digital-First, NHS Primary Care on Acute Hospital Spending: Retrospective Observational Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e24917. [PMID: 34292160 PMCID: PMC8367118 DOI: 10.2196/24917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital health has the potential to revolutionize health care by improving accessibility, patient experience, outcomes, productivity, safety, and cost efficiency. In England, the NHS (National Health Service) Long Term Plan promised the right to access digital-first primary care by March 31, 2024. However, there are few global, fully digital-first providers and limited research into their effects on cost from a health system perspective. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of highly accessible, digital-first primary care on acute hospital spending. METHODS A retrospective, observational analysis compared acute hospital spending on patients registered to a 24/7, digital-first model of NHS primary care with that on patients registered to all other practices in North West London Collaboration of Clinical Commissioning Groups. Acute hospital spending data per practice were obtained under a freedom of information request. Three versions of NHS techniques designed to fairly allocate funding according to need were used to standardize or "weight" the practice populations; hence, there are 3 results for each year. The weighting adjusted the populations for characteristics that impact health care spending, such as age, sex, and deprivation. The total spending was divided by the number of standardized or weighted patients to give the spending per weighted patient, which was used to compare the 2 groups in the NHS financial years (FY) 2018-2019 (FY18/19) and 2019-2020 (FY19/20). FY18/19 costs were adjusted for inflation, so they were comparable with the values of FY19/20. RESULTS The NHS spending on acute hospital care for 2.43 million and 2.54 million people (FY18/19 and FY19/20) across 358 practices and 49 primary care networks was £1.6 billion and £1.65 billion (a currency exchange rate of £1=US $1.38 is applicable), respectively. The spending on acute care per weighted patient for Babylon GP at Hand members was 12%, 31%, and 54% (£93, P=.047; £223, P<.001; and £389, P<.001) lower than the regional average in FY18/19 for the 3 weighting methodologies used. In FY19/20, it was 15%, 35%, and 51% (£114, P=.006; £246, P<.001; and £362, P<.001) lower. This amounted to lower costs for the Babylon GP at Hand population of £1.37, £4.40 million, and £11.6 million, respectively, in FY18/19; and £3.26 million, £9.54 million, and £18.8 million, respectively, in FY19/20. CONCLUSIONS Patients with access to 24/7, digital-first primary care incurred significantly lower acute hospital costs.
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20
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Rose S, Hurwitz HM, Mercer MB, Hizlan S, Gali K, Yu PC, Franke C, Martinez K, Stanton M, Faiman M, Rasmussen P, Boissy A. Patient Experience in Virtual Visits Hinges on Technology and the Patient-Clinician Relationship: A Large Survey Study With Open-ended Questions. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e18488. [PMID: 34152276 PMCID: PMC8277398 DOI: 10.2196/18488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient satisfaction with in-person medical visits includes patient-clinician engagement. However, communication, empathy, and other relationship-centered care measures in virtual visits have not been adequately investigated. OBJECTIVE This study aims to comprehensively consider patient experience, including relationship-centered care measures, to assess patient satisfaction during virtual visits. METHODS We conducted a large survey study with open-ended questions to comprehensively assess patients' experiences with virtual visits in a diverse patient population. Adults with a virtual visit between June 21, 2017, and July 12, 2017, were invited to complete a survey of 21 Likert-scale items and textboxes for comments following their visit. Factor analysis of the survey items revealed three factors: experience with technology, patient-clinician engagement, and overall satisfaction. Multivariable logistic regression was used to test the associations among the three factors and patient demographics, clinician type, and prior relationship with the clinician. Using qualitative framework analysis, we identified recurrent themes in survey comments, quantitatively coded comments, and computed descriptive statistics of the coded comments. RESULTS A total of 65.7% (426/648) of the patients completed the survey; 64.1% (273/426) of the respondents were women, and the average age was 46 (range 18-86) years. The sample was geographically diverse: 70.2% (299/426) from Ohio, 6.8% (29/426) from Florida, 4.2% (18/426) from Pennsylvania, and 18.7% (80/426) from other states. With regard to insurance coverage, 57.5% (245/426) were undetermined, 23.7% (101/426) had the hospital's employee health insurance, and 18.7% (80/426) had other private insurance. Types of virtual visits and clinicians varied. Overall, 58.4% (249/426) of patients had an on-demand visit, whereas 41.5% (177/426) had a scheduled visit. A total of 41.8% (178/426) of patients had a virtual visit with a family physician, 20.9% (89/426) with an advanced practice provider, and the rest had a visit with a specialist. Most patients (393/423, 92.9%) agreed that their virtual visit clinician was interested in them as a person, and their virtual visit made it easy to get the care they needed (383/421, 90.9%). A total of 81.9% (344/420) of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their virtual visit was as good as an in-person visit by a clinician. Having a prior relationship with their virtual visit clinician was associated with less comfort and ease with virtual technology among patients (odds ratio 0.58, 95% CI 0.35-0.98). In terms of technology, patients found the interface easy to use (392/423, 92.7%) and felt comfortable using it (401/423, 94.8%). Technical difficulties were associated with lower odds of overall satisfaction (odds ratio 0.46, 95% CI 0.28-0.76). CONCLUSIONS Patient-clinician engagement in virtual visits was comparable with in-person visits. This study supports the value and acceptance of virtual visits. Evaluations of virtual visits should include assessments of technology and patient-clinician engagement, as both are likely to influence patient satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah Rose
- Office of Patient Experience, Clinical Transformation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | | | - Mary Beth Mercer
- Office of Patient Experience, Clinical Transformation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sabahat Hizlan
- Office of Patient Experience, Clinical Transformation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Kari Gali
- Digital Health, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Pei-Chun Yu
- Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Caroline Franke
- Office of Patient Experience, Clinical Transformation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Kathryn Martinez
- Center for Value-Based Care Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Matthew Stanton
- Digital Health, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Matthew Faiman
- Digital Health, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Peter Rasmussen
- Digital Health, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Adrienne Boissy
- Office of Patient Experience, Clinical Transformation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
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21
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Johnsen TM, Norberg BL, Kristiansen E, Zanaboni P, Austad B, Krogh FH, Getz L. Suitability of Video Consultations During the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown: Cross-sectional Survey Among Norwegian General Practitioners. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e26433. [PMID: 33465037 PMCID: PMC7872327 DOI: 10.2196/26433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic imposed an acute, sharp rise in the use of video consultations (VCs) by general practitioners (GPs) in Norway. Objective This study aims to document GPs’ experiences with the large-scale uptake of VCs in the natural experiment context of the pandemic. Methods A nationwide, cross-sectional online survey was conducted among Norwegian GPs during the pandemic lockdown (April 14-May 3, 2020). Each respondent was asked to evaluate up to 10 VCs. Basic demographic characteristics of the GPs and their practices were collected. The associations between GPs’ perceived suitability of the VCs, the nature of the patients’ main problems, prior knowledge of the patients (relational continuity), and follow-up of previously presented problems (episodic continuity) were explored using descriptive statistics, diagrams, and chi-square tests. Results In total, 1237 GPs (26% of the target group) responded to the survey. Among these, 1000 GPs offered VCs, and 855 GPs evaluated a total of 3484 VCs. Most GPs who offered VCs (1000/1237; 81%) had no experience with VCs before the pandemic. Overall, 51% (1766/3476) of the evaluated VCs were considered to have similar or even better suitability to assess the main reason for contact, compared to face-to-face consultations. In the presence of relational continuity, VCs were considered equal to or better than face-to-face consultations in 57% (1011/1785) of cases, as opposed to 32% (87/274) when the patient was unknown. The suitability rate for follow-up consultations (episodic continuity) was 61% (1165/1919), compared to 35% (544/1556) for new patient problems. Suitability varied considerably across clinical contact reasons. VCs were found most suitable for anxiety and life stress, depression, and administrative purposes, as well as for longstanding or complex problems that normally require multiple follow-up consultations. The GPs estimate that they will conduct about 20% of their consultations by video in a future, nonpandemic setting. Conclusions Our study of VCs performed in general practice during the pandemic lockdown indicates a clear future role for VCs in nonpandemic settings. The strong and consistent association between continuity of care and GPs’ perceptions of the suitability of VCs is a new and important finding with considerable relevance for future primary health care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tor Magne Johnsen
- Norwegian Centre for E-health Research, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Børge Lønnebakke Norberg
- Norwegian Centre for E-health Research, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Paolo Zanaboni
- Norwegian Centre for E-health Research, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bjarne Austad
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Frode Helgetun Krogh
- Norwegian Centre for E-health Research, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Linn Getz
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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