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Bracken K, Salerno J, Yang L. Physician-Led Synchronous Telemedicine Compared to Face-To-Face Care in Primary Care: A Systematic Review. Eval Health Prof 2024:1632787241273911. [PMID: 39140652 DOI: 10.1177/01632787241273911] [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: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis rapidly introduced telemedicine as the predominate modality to deliver healthcare however this change has not received attention in primary care settings and the health-related impacts are unknown. The study's objective was to explore the effects of physician-led synchronous telemedicine compared to face-to-face care delivered in the primary care setting on healthcare system use and attributes of primary care as reported in recent studies. We performed a comprehensive literature search in five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycInfo) and critical appraisal using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Of 6,247 studies identified, 157 studies underwent full text review, and 19 studies were included. Most studies were conducted in the U.S. (78.9%) and used video and telephone telemedicine (57.9%). An outcome-based qualitative description and narrative synthesis showed similar or fewer emergency department visits, hospital visits, and prescribing, and fewer diagnostic tests and imaging for telemedicine visits compared to face-to-face care. Our systematic review fills a gap in the literature on telemedicine in primary care settings however our results need to be interpreted cautiously given studies' susceptibility to selection bias, confounding, and limited applicability to other health systems and time periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyna Bracken
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Canada
| | - Jennifer Salerno
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Canada
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Canada
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Canada
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2
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Cui F, Zhang X, He X, Liu D, Shi J, Ye M, Wang L, Chu Y, Zhao J. Clinical applications of telemedicine services using a regional telemedicine platform for cancer treatment: a cross-sectional study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:808. [PMID: 38973010 PMCID: PMC11229255 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12563-5] [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] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine is beneficial for improving treatment efficiency and reducing medical expenses of cancer patients. This study focuses on cancer patients participating in teleconsultations through a regional telemedicine platform in China, analyzes the consultation process, and provides references for the clinical application of telemedicine. METHODS We collected information on teleconsultations of cancer patients conducted from 2015 to 2022 through the regional telemedicine platform. Utilizing SPSS 23.0 software, we conducted descriptive analysis to summarize the distribution of patient gender, age, region, and disease types. The ordinal logistic regression analysis was adopted to analyze the factors influencing the waiting time and consultation duration for teleconsultations. RESULTS From 2015 to 2022, a total of 23,060 teleconsultations were conducted for cancer patients via regional telemedicine platform, with an average growth rate of 11.09%. The main types of consultations were for lung cancer, liver cancer, and breast cancer, accounting for 18.14%, 10.49%, and 9.46% respectively. 57.05% of teleconsultations had a waiting time of less than 24 h, while patient age, consultation expert level, and disease type were the main factors influencing the waiting time. 50.06% of teleconsultations had a duration of more than 20 min, and the inviting hospital level and the title of invited consultant were the main factors influencing the consultation duration. CONCLUSIONS In China, telemedicine has been widely employed in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of cancers, covering various types of oncological diseases. However, the waiting time for teleconsultations was generally more than 12 h, indicating the need to enhance consultation scheduling and allocate more expert resources to further optimize the efficiency of teleconsultations. Additionally, further exploration is required for remote health management of outpatients with cancers outside the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Cui
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Xianying He
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Dongqing Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jinming Shi
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ming Ye
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Yuntian Chu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- National Engineering Laboratory for Internet Medical Systems and Applications, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Shanghai, China.
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Pietrantonio F, Florczak M, Kuhn S, Kärberg K, Leung T, Said Criado I, Sikorski S, Ruggeri M, Signorini A, Rosiello F, Drago C, Vinci A, Barreto V, Montano N, Dicker D, Gomez Huelgas R. Applications to augment patient care for Internal Medicine specialists: a position paper from the EFIM working group on telemedicine, innovative technologies & digital health. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1370555. [PMID: 39005984 PMCID: PMC11239350 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1370555] [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: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine applications present virtually limitless prospects for innovating and enhancing established and new models of patient care in the field of Internal Medicine. Although there is a wide range of innovative technological solutions in Europe, there are overarching elements associated with such technologies when applied to the practices of Internal Medicine specialists. The European Federation of Internal Medicine (EFIM) strongly advocates for active leadership and influence from the Internal Medicine societies and specialist physicians across Europe in the development and application of telemedicine and digital technologies in healthcare. This position paper's conclusions were drawn via Delphi method, which was developed collaboratively from July 2021 to December 2023. The panel, consisting of experts in clinical medicine, public health, health economics and statistics, assessed various aspects related to telemedicine. Participants assigned scores on a Likert scale reflecting perceived value and potential risks. The findings were consolidated in a comprehensive checklist aligning with relevant literature and a SWOT analysis. Specifically, key issues that need to be addressed include promoting the professional development of e-health competencies in the healthcare and medical workforce, using educational campaigns to promote digital literacy among patients and caregivers, designing and implementing telemedicine applications tailored to local conditions and needs and considering the ethical and legal contexts under which these applications are employed. Importantly, there is currently no consensus on care models or standardized protocols among European Internal Medicine specialists regarding the utilization of telemedicine. This position paper aims to outline the opportunities and challenges associated with the application of telemedicine in Internal Medical practice in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pietrantonio
- Medical Area Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Castelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - M Florczak
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine. Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - S Kuhn
- Institute of Digital Medicine, University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Phillips-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - K Kärberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - T Leung
- Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Adjunct), Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, United States
| | - I Said Criado
- Palliative Care Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Pontevedra-El Salnés Healthcare Area, Institute of Healthcare Research, Vigo, Spain
| | - S Sikorski
- Institute of Law Studies, Faculty of Law and Administration, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Ruggeri
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - A Signorini
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - F Rosiello
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Drago
- University Niccolò Cusano. Department of Economics, Psichology and Communication Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - A Vinci
- Local Health Authority ASL Roma 1, Health Management Unit, Rome, Italy
| | - V Barreto
- Pedro Hispano Hospital, Porto, Portugal
| | - N Montano
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - D Dicker
- Internal Medicine Department and Obesity Clinic, Hasharon Hospital, Rabin Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - R Gomez Huelgas
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
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4
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Carbonara N, Pellegrino R, De Luca C. Resilience of hospitals in an age of disruptions: a systematic literature review on resources and capabilities. Health Syst (Basingstoke) 2024; 13:192-228. [PMID: 39175496 PMCID: PMC11338213 DOI: 10.1080/20476965.2024.2365144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Hospitals play a critical role in ensuring continuous and effective healthcare delivery, especially during crises. However, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in hospital systems, prompting a need to enhance resilience-the ability to withstand, absorb, respond to, recover from, and learn from disasters. A systematic literature review, grounded in the resource-based view, identified organizational characteristics, in terms of resources and capabilities, and their synergistic effects that bolster hospital resilience. The results demonstrate that digital technologies impact on anticipation and adaptation abilities, organizational capabilities to reorganize roles, tasks, and spaces enhance adaptability, and Inter-organizational collaborations increase the responsiveness of the hospitals. The study provides substantial theoretical and practical contributions. It expands knowledge of hospital resilience in light of recent disruptive events and promotes integration capabilities as determinants for the majority of resilience dimensions. All organisational and inter-organisational collaboration, cooperation, and coordination are deemed crucial for hospital resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzia Carbonara
- Department of Mechanics Mathematics and Management, Polytechnic University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Pellegrino
- Department of Mechanics Mathematics and Management, Polytechnic University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Cristina De Luca
- Department of Mechanics Mathematics and Management, Polytechnic University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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5
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Cooper IR, Schmaus A, Whitten TA, Bakal JA, Kurji F, Watt D, Lang E. Descriptive analysis and evaluation of Health Link referrals to the emergency department before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Intern Emerg Med 2024; 19:1129-1137. [PMID: 38386095 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03527-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Alberta, Health Link (HL) provides a 24-h, nurse-staffed, phone resource to the public for health-care advice. HL directs callers to either seek care in the emergency department (ED), with a primary care provider or provide self-care at home. This work aims to describe HL ED referrals prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Data from January 1, 2018-December 31, 2019, and July 1, 2020-June 30, 2022, were selected. HL calls were categorized as likely appropriate if the patient was referred and presented to the ED within 24 h and had a Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) of 1-3; or a CTAS of 4-5 and the patient was admitted, specialist consulted, or diagnostic imaging or laboratory tests were completed. The primary outcome was the percentage of likely appropriate referrals among all HL ED referrals. RESULTS In the 2018-2019 and 2020-2022 samples, respectively, there were 845,372 and 832,730 calls. Of the 211,723 and 213,486 ED referrals, only 140,614 (66.4%) and 143,322 (67.1%) presented to an ED. Of these, 84.3 and 86.7 per 100 patient visits were categorized as likely appropriate referrals. Health Link referrals account for 3.2% and 3.8% of all ED visits. IMPACT HL referrals to the ED represent only a small percentage of all ED visits. Based on our definition, most referrals by HL are likely appropriate. The COVID-19 pandemic does not appear to have altered the rates of calls to HL, the number of HL calls referred to the ED, nor the likely appropriateness of those referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian R Cooper
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Andrew Schmaus
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Tara A Whitten
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Strategy for Patient Oriented Research Support Unit Data Platform, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Provincial Research Data Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jeffery A Bakal
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Strategy for Patient Oriented Research Support Unit Data Platform, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Provincial Research Data Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Fayaz Kurji
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Denise Watt
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Eddy Lang
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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6
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Itoh H, Amiya E, Jimba T, Shimbo M, Narita K, Taya M, Kadokami T, Yasu T, Oka H, Sogawa M, Yokoi H, Mizutani K, Miura SI, Tokeshi T, Date A, Noma T, Kutsuzawa D, Usui S, Sugawara S, Kanazawa M, Sekino H, Nishitani Yokoyama M, Okumura T, Ugata Y, Fujishima S, Hirabayashi K, Ishizaki Y, Kuwahara K, Kaji Y, Shimizu H, Koyama T, Adachi H, Kurumatani Y, Taniguchi R, Ohori K, Shiraishi H, Hasegawa T, Makita S, Komuro I, Kimura Y. Efficacy and safety of remote cardiac rehabilitation in the recovery phase of cardiovascular diseases (RecRCR study): A multicenter, nonrandomized, and interventional trial in Japan. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2024; 52:101421. [PMID: 38799401 PMCID: PMC11127237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2024.101421] [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] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Backgrounds Remote cardiac rehabilitation has proven useful in patients with cardiovascular disease; however, the methodology had not been fully validated. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of remote cardiac rehabilitation (RCR) with real-time monitoring and an ergometer using a bidirectional communication tool during the recovery phase of cardiovascular diseases. Methods This multicenter, nonrandomized, interventional study was conducted at 29 institutions across Japan and enrolled patients with cardiovascular diseases who met indications for cardiac rehabilitation (CR) after receiving in-hospital treatment. The RCR group exercised at home using an ergometer and was monitored in real-time using interactive video and monitoring tools for 2-3 months. Educational instructions were provided concurrently through e-learning approaches. The safety of the RCR protocol and the improvement in peak oxygen consumption (VO2) were compared with those of the historical control group that participated in center-based CR. Results Fifty-three patients from the RCR group were compared with 103 historical controls having similar background characteristics. No patients in RCR experienced significant cardiovascular complications while engaging in exercise sessions. After 2-3 months of RCR, the peak VO2 improved significantly, and the increases in the RCR group did not exhibit any significant differences compared to those in the historical controls. During follow-up, the proportion of patients whose exercise capacity increased by 10% or more was also evaluated; this finding did not indicate a statistically significant distinction between the groups. Conclusions RCR during the recovery phase of cardiovascular diseases proved equally efficient and safe as center-based CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Itoh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eisuke Amiya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Therapeutic Strategy for Heart Failure, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Jimba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mai Shimbo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Narita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanobu Taya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Takanori Yasu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Nephrology, Dokkyo Medical University Nikko Medical Center, Tochigi, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - Shin-ichiro Miura
- Department of Cardiology, Fukuoka University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Ayumi Date
- Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takahisa Noma
- Department of Cardiorenal and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kutsuzawa
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Nephrology, Yamagata University School of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Soichiro Usui
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University School of Medical Science, Ishikawa, Japan
| | | | - Masanori Kanazawa
- Department of Cardiology, Iwate Prefectural Central Hospital, Iwate, Japan
| | - Hisakuni Sekino
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Association of Healthcare Corporation Kyufukukai Sekino Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miho Nishitani Yokoyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Okumura
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ugata
- Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | | | | | - Yuta Ishizaki
- Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Koichiro Kuwahara
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Nagano, Japan
| | - Yuko Kaji
- Department of Nursing, Hiraka General Hospital, Akita, Japan
| | - Hiroki Shimizu
- Department of Cardiology, Konan Medical Center, Hyogo, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Ryoji Taniguchi
- Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Ohori
- Department of Cardiology, Hokkaido Cardiovascular Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Shiraishi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Shigeru Makita
- Kawaguchi Cupola Rehabilitation Hospital/Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Issei Komuro
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Frontier Cardiovascular Science, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- International University of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - RecRCR registry investigators
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Therapeutic Strategy for Heart Failure, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Saiseikai Futsukaichi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Nephrology, Dokkyo Medical University Nikko Medical Center, Tochigi, Japan
- Nijigaoka Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
- Moriyama Memorial Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Fukuoka Sanno Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
- Rokko Island Konan Hospital, Hyogo, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Fukuoka University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
- Shonan Hospital, Okinawa, Japan
- Asahikawa Medical University Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Cardiorenal and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Nephrology, Yamagata University School of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University School of Medical Science, Ishikawa, Japan
- Nihonkai General Hospital, Yamagata, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Iwate Prefectural Central Hospital, Iwate, Japan
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Association of Healthcare Corporation Kyufukukai Sekino Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
- Cardiovascular Center, Steel Memorial Yawata Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Tomakomai City Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
- Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Nagano, Japan
- Department of Nursing, Hiraka General Hospital, Akita, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Konan Medical Center, Hyogo, Japan
- Kameda Medical Center, Chiba, Japan
- Gunma Prefectural Cardiovascular Center, Gunma, Japan
- Kofu Kyoritsu Hospital, Yamanashi, Japan
- Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center, Hyogo, Japan
- Department of Cardiology, Hokkaido Cardiovascular Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Japan Telemedicine Society, Japan
- Kawaguchi Cupola Rehabilitation Hospital/Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Frontier Cardiovascular Science, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- International University of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
- Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
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7
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Katzow MW, Steinway C, Capossela E, Chen J, Chen V, Fenster T, Galagedera N, Hamill M, Lin E, Mamauag E, Moriarty S, Pathania S, Pliskin L, Ripp A, Ronay A, Santiago MT, Yang M, Jan S. Utilization and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Direct-to-Consumer Telemedicine During the First 6 Weeks of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Largest Pediatric Ambulatory Network in New York State. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:e1944-e1953. [PMID: 38597957 PMCID: PMC11296156 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0483] [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] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: We aimed to (1) describe telemedicine utilization and usability during the first 6 weeks of the pandemic and (2) determine if usability varied by individual- or visit-level characteristics. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of ambulatory pediatric telemedicine visits occurring between March 10, 2020, and April 18, 2020, across a large academic health system. We performed manual chart review to assess individual- and visit-level characteristics and invited caregivers to respond to an adapted Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ). We used multiple logistic regression to determine predictors of high usability. Results: There were 3,197 ambulatory pediatric telemedicine visits, representing 2,967 unique patients. Patients were racially/ethnically diverse (42.5% non-Hispanic White) and primarily English-speaking (89.2%). Surveys were completed by 441 (17%) of those invited. Every item of the TUQ had agreement or strong agreement from the majority of respondents. Compared with non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Asian identity was associated with lower usability in three domains and overall, and non-Hispanic Black identity was associated with higher satisfaction and future use. As compared with caregivers of infants younger than 1 year, caregivers of older patients reported lower usability in the three domains. Conclusions: Telemedicine was successfully implemented across 18 ambulatory pediatric specialties in the largest health system in New York State at the onset of COVID-19, and caregivers found it usable and acceptable. Usability scores did not vary by visit-level characteristics but did vary by race/ethnicity and age. Further research is necessary to identify modifiable drivers of the patient experience, particularly in non-Hispanic Asian communities and older adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle W. Katzow
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Institute for Health Systems Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Caren Steinway
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Errica Capossela
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, Rady Children's Hospital, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jack Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Victoria Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Talia Fenster
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Nirupa Galagedera
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Megan Hamill
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Elaine Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Erica Mamauag
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shannon Moriarty
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Shivany Pathania
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Brown University/Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Lyndsey Pliskin
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Asher Ripp
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Avy Ronay
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Maria T. Santiago
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Margaret Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sophia Jan
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
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8
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Swain TA, McGwin G, Girkin CA, Owsley C. Telemedicine Screening for Eye Disorders in Federally Qualified Health Centers: Relationship to Vision-Targeted Health-Related Quality of Life. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:e2080-e2086. [PMID: 38662523 PMCID: PMC11296149 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0695] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) play a crucial role as safety-net primary health care clinics in the United States, serving medically underserved areas and populations. However, eye services are rarely offered at FQHCs. We examined how telemedicine-generated ocular diagnoses impacted vision-targeted health-related quality of life at FQHCs in rural Alabama. Methods: We focused on patients who are at risk for glaucoma. Both visual function and retinal imaging were assessed. The telemedicine vision screening protocol performed by a remote ophthalmologist evaluated eyes for glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataract, age-related macular degeneration, and a measurement of habitual visual acuity. The National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-9 (VFQ-9) was administered. Results: Using stepwise regression, the best-fitting model for predicting VFQ-9 scores incorporated visual acuity 20/40 or worse, a diabetic retinopathy diagnosis, and sociodemographic variables (gender, transportation, insurance type/status, and employment status). Conclusion: Vision-targeted, health-related quality of life in our FQHC settings was related to the visual acuity impairment and the diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy but was also influenced by a variety of sociodemographic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Swain
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gerald McGwin
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Christopher A. Girkin
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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9
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Frith M, Boyd J, Savira F, Senyel D, Norman R, Jones J, Robinson S. Investigating consumer preferences and experiences of telehealth services in Australian allied health practice: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e082577. [PMID: 38760034 PMCID: PMC11103208 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-082577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telehealth service provision and uptake has rapidly increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing healthcare to be delivered safely and reducing non-essential face-to-face (F2F) contact. In Australia, the expansion of subsidisation of telehealth during COVID has led to its permanent installation within Australian primary care in 2022. However, little is known about consumer preferences and experiences with these services, particularly in relation to allied health practice (AHP). Previous studies on telehealth services have focused on general practice rather than allied health (AH) and broader primary care. Given that AH professionals make up a large proportion of the Australian healthcare workforce, the purpose of this study is to explore consumer preferences and experiences with telehealth AHP healthcare. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study uses a mixed methods research design that incorporates three independent but interrelated phases. Phase 2 of the study will use a focus group methodology to discuss consumer attitudes and experiences via a semistructured interview format. Phase 3 involves a discrete choice experiment (DCE) involving a large online survey conducted across the general population. The DCE will be informed by the qualitative findings from phases 1 and 2. The experiment aims to elicit consumer preferences in relation to AH services delivered through telehealth or F2F consultations, based on several hypothetical scenarios and preferences over several different dimensions. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval has been obtained from La Trobe University (approval number HEC23404). Findings will be disseminated as reports, presentations and peer-reviewed journal articles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison Frith
- Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Boyd
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Feby Savira
- Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deniz Senyel
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Janelle Jones
- Department of General Practice, Primary Care Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzanne Robinson
- Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Smolinska S, Popescu FD, Izquierdo E, Antolín-Amérigo D, Price OJ, Alvarez-Perea A, Eguíluz Gracia I, Papadopoulos NG, Pfaar O, Fassio F, Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, Dramburg S, Agache I, Jutel M, Brough HA, Fonseca JA, Angier E, Boccabella C, Bonini M, Dunn Galvin A, Gibson PG, Gawlik R, Hannachi F, Kalayci Ö, Klimek L, Knibb R, Matricardi P, Chivato T. Telemedicine with special focus on allergic diseases and asthma-Status 2022: An EAACI position paper. Allergy 2024; 79:777-792. [PMID: 38041429 DOI: 10.1111/all.15964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Efficacious, effective and efficient communication between healthcare professionals (HCP) and patients is essential to achieve a successful therapeutic alliance. Telemedicine (TM) has been used for decades but during the COVID-19 pandemic its use has become widespread. This position paper aims to describe the terminology and most important forms of TM among HCP and patients and review the existing studies on the uses of TM for asthma and allergy. Besides, the advantages and risks of TM are discussed, concluding that TM application reduces costs and time for both, HCP and patients, but cannot completely replace face-to-face visits for physical examinations and certain tests that are critical in asthma and allergy. From an ethical point of view, it is important to identify those involved in the TM process, ensure confidentiality and use communication channels that fully guarantee the security of the information. Unmet needs and directions for the future regarding implementation, data protection, privacy regulations, methodology and efficacy are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Smolinska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Florin-Dan Popescu
- Department of Allergology, Nicolae Malaxa Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Izquierdo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Institute of Applied Molecular Medicine Instituto de Medicina Molecular Aplicada Nemesio Díez (IMMA), Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Madrid, Spain
| | - Darío Antolín-Amérigo
- Servicio de Alergia, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Oliver J Price
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Alberto Alvarez-Perea
- Allergy Service, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ibon Eguíluz Gracia
- Allergy Department, Hospital Regional Universitario de Malaga and Allergy Research Group, Instituto de Investigacion Biomedica de Malaga (IBIMA-Plataforma BIONAND). RICORS "Inflammatory Diseases", Malaga, Spain
| | - Nikolaos G Papadopoulos
- Allergy Department, 2nd Pediatric Clinic, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Oliver Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Rhinology and Allergy, University Hospital Marburg, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Stephanie Dramburg
- Department of Pediatric Respiratory Care, Immunology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ioana Agache
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Transylvania University, Brasov, Romania
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
- "ALL-MED" Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Helen A Brough
- Children's Allergy Service, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - João A Fonseca
- CINTESIS@RISE, MEDCIDS, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Elizabeth Angier
- Primary Care, Population Science and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Cristina Boccabella
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Bonini
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Peter G Gibson
- John Hunter Hospital, Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Radoslaw Gawlik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Farah Hannachi
- Immuno-Allergology Unit, Hospital Centre of Luxembourg, Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
| | - Ömer Kalayci
- Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ludger Klimek
- Center for Rhinology and Allergology, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Rebecca Knibb
- School of Psychology, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paolo Matricardi
- Department of Pediatric Respiratory Care, Immunology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tomás Chivato
- Department of Clinical Medical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, Madrid, Spain
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11
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Zhong Y, Hahne J, Wang X, Wang X, Wu Y, Zhang X, Liu X. Telehealth Care Through Internet Hospitals in China: Qualitative Interview Study of Physicians' Views on Access, Expectations, and Communication. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e47523. [PMID: 38551618 PMCID: PMC11015369 DOI: 10.2196/47523] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internet hospitals in China are an emerging medical service model similar to other telehealth models used worldwide. Internet hospitals are currently in a stage of rapid development, giving rise to a series of new opportunities and challenges for patient care. Little research has examined the views of chronic disease physicians regarding internet hospitals in China. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the experience and views of chronic disease physicians at 3 tertiary hospitals in Changsha, China, regarding opportunities and challenges in internet hospital care. METHODS We conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with physicians (n=26) who had experience working in internet hospitals affiliated with chronic disease departments in 3 tertiary hospitals in Changsha, Hunan province, south central China. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by content analysis using NVivo software (version 11; Lumivero). RESULTS Physicians emphasized that internet hospitals expand opportunities to conduct follow-up care and health education for patients with chronic illnesses. However, physicians described disparities in access for particular groups of patients, such as patients who are older, patients with lower education levels, patients with limited internet or technology access, and rural patients. Physicians also perceived a gap between patients' expectations and the reality of limitations regarding both physicians' availability and the scope of services offered by internet hospitals, which raised challenges for doctor-patient boundaries and trust. Physicians noted challenges in doctor-patient communication related to comprehension and informed consent in internet hospital care. CONCLUSIONS This study explored the experience and views of physicians in 3 tertiary hospitals in Changsha, China, regarding access to care, patients' expectations versus the reality of services, and doctor-patient communication in internet hospital care. Findings from this study highlight the need for physician training in telehealth communication skills, legislation regulating informed consent in telehealth care, public education clarifying the scope of internet hospital services, and design of internet hospitals that is informed by the needs of patient groups with barriers to access, such as older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqiong Zhong
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jessica Hahne
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Center for Medical Ethics, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xuxi Wang
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Wu
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Medical Humanities Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Medical Humanities Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Office of International Cooperation and Exchanges, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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12
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De La Torre A, Diaz P, Perdomo R. Analysis of the virtual healthcare model in Latin America: a systematic review of current challenges and barriers. Mhealth 2024; 10:20. [PMID: 38689618 PMCID: PMC11058594 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-23-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The virtual care model can be used in all aspects of healthcare, such as prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of most medical and surgical conditions. The objective of this study was to identify the current barriers to implementing and consolidating the virtual healthcare model, of "telemedicine", in Latin American countries. Methods A systematic review was conducted through four databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Virtual Health, including articles in Spanish, Portuguese, and English. A combination of Boolean operators was used with the terms "telemedicine", "telehealth", "telecare", "home care services", "remote care" and the name of each Latin American country. Articles published from January 2020 to January 2023 that reported on the barriers and challenges of using the virtual care model were included. Results Nineteen articles were included. Brazil (n=5) and Argentina (n=4) were the countries where there was the greatest interest to explore barriers to virtual care. The barriers identified were categorized into five main themes: (I) technological and technical issues; (II) absence of a physical examination; (III) patient's negative perceptions; (IV) negative perceptions among healthcare professionals; and (V) structural obstacles and those associated with the healthcare system. The main obstacles reported were connectivity problems, lack of a complete physical examination, issues of privacy, high risk of medical malpractice, and absence of local regulation. Conclusions The virtual care model is a safe and cost-effective alternative for the delivery of health services, with multiple benefits for patients and their families. The indication for the use of virtual care should be based on a risk model for patient prioritization. Likewise, the analysis of the main barriers and benefits is fundamental to consolidating this model of care and ensuring its expansion in the region.
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13
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D'Souza K, Singh S, Westgard CM, Barnhardt S. A qualitative assessment of barriers and facilitators of telemedicine volunteerism during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2024; 22:21. [PMID: 38520012 PMCID: PMC10958920 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-024-00897-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic further propelled the recent growth of telemedicine in low-resource countries, with new models of telemedicine emerging, including volunteer-based telemedicine networks. By leveraging existing infrastructure and resources to allocate health personnel more efficiently, these volunteer networks eased some of the pandemic burden placed on health systems. However, there is insufficient understanding of volunteer-based telemedicine models, especially on the human resources engagement on such networks. This study aims to understand the motivations and barriers to health practitioner engagement on a volunteer telemedicine network during COVID-19, and the mechanisms that can potentially sustain volunteer engagement to address healthcare demands beyond the pandemic. METHODS In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with health practitioners volunteering on an Indian, multi-state telemedicine network during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis methods. RESULTS Most practitioners reported being motivated to volunteer by a sense of duty to serve during the pandemic. Practitioners suggested organizational-level measures to make the process more efficient and facilitate a more rewarding provider-patient interaction. These included screening calls, gathering patient information prior to consultations, and allowing for follow-up calls with patients to close the loop on consultations. Many practitioners stated that non-financial incentives are enough to maintain volunteer engagement. However, practitioners expressed mixed feelings about financial incentives. Some stated that financial incentives are needed to maintain long-term provider engagement, while others stated that financial incentives would devalue the volunteer experience. Most practitioners highlighted that telemedicine could increase access to healthcare, especially to the rural and underserved, even after the pandemic. Practitioners also expressed an interest in continuing to volunteer with the network if the need arose again. CONCLUSION Our study findings suggest that practitioners are highly intrinsically motivated to volunteer during large healthcare emergencies and beyond to address the healthcare needs of the underserved. Following the recommendations presented in the study, telemedicine networks can more successfully engage and maintain volunteer practitioners. Volunteer-based telemedicine networks have the potential to bridge shortages of health personnel in resource-constrained settings both in times of crises and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karishma D'Souza
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1101B McGavran-Greenberg Hall, CB #7411, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Saksham Singh
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Christopher M Westgard
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Sharon Barnhardt
- Centre for Social and Behaviour Change, Ashoka University, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana, 131029, India
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14
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Chakrabarti S. Digital psychiatry in low-and-middle-income countries: New developments and the way forward. World J Psychiatry 2024; 14:350-361. [PMID: 38617977 PMCID: PMC11008387 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v14.i3.350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear the greater share of the global mental health burden but are ill-equipped to deal with it because of severe resource constraints leading to a large treatment gap. The remote provision of mental health services by digital means can effectively augment conventional services in LMICs to reduce the treatment gap. Digital psychiatry in LMICs has always lagged behind high-income countries, but there have been encouraging developments in the last decade. There is increasing research on the efficacy of digital psychiatric interventions. However, the evidence is not adequate to conclude that digital psychiatric interventions are invariably effective in LMICs. A striking development has been the rise in mobile and smartphone ownership in LMICs, which has driven the increasing use of mobile technologies to deliver mental health services. An innovative use of mobile technologies has been to optimize task-shifting, which involves delivering mental healthcare services in community settings using non-specialist health professionals. Emerging evidence from LMICs shows that it is possible to use digital tools to train non-specialist workers effectively and ensure that the psychosocial interventions they deliver are efficacious. Despite these promising developments, many barriers such as service costs, underdeveloped infrastructure, lack of trained professionals, and significant disparities in access to digital services impede the progress of digital psychiatry in LMICs. To overcome these barriers, digital psychiatric services in LMICs should address contextual factors influencing the delivery of digital services, ensure collaboration between different stakeholders, and focus on reducing the digital divide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subho Chakrabarti
- Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, UT, India
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15
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Saeed S, Singhal M, Kaur KN, Shannawaz M, Koul A, Arora K, Kumar B, Sethiya NK, Hasan S. Acceptability and Satisfaction of Patients and Providers With Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e56308. [PMID: 38628988 PMCID: PMC11019470 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56308] [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] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19, also known as coronavirus disease 2019, is an extremely contagious viral sickness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). After the first cases of this primarily respiratory viral illness were recorded in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in late December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 rapidly disseminated across the globe. Consequently, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a global pandemic. The rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus, coupled with subsequent lockdowns and social distancing measures, profoundly disrupted traditional healthcare delivery systems. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine emerged as a pivotal solution for delivering healthcare services while minimizing exposure to the virus. This study aims to assess patient and provider satisfaction with telemedicine during this unprecedented period. A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using specific MeSH terms and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Literature Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to summarize patient and provider satisfaction concerning telemedicine using all the facts, evidence, and published literature. The analysis showed that although providers were generally satisfied with telemedicine, they were less satisfied than patients due to technical issues and difficulties transmitting documents. Patients reported high satisfaction with telemedicine, citing convenience and cost savings as major benefits. However, a lack of provider compensation was identified as a potential barrier to adoption. Most providers believed that telemedicine was only necessary in emergencies while a few recognized its potential for routine care. The study concludes that telemedicine has the potential to improve healthcare access and efficiency, but more research is needed to address technical and reimbursement issues and to determine the appropriate scope of telemedicine use. Overall, the findings of this study can inform future healthcare policies and regulations to ensure that telemedicine is used effectively and to the satisfaction of both patients and providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazina Saeed
- Amity Institute of Public Health & Hospital Administration, Amity University, Noida, IND
- School of Pharmaceuticals and Population Health Informatics, DIT University, Dehradun, IND
| | - Manmohan Singhal
- School of Pharmaceuticals and Population Health Informatics, DIT University, Dehradun, IND
| | - Karuna N Kaur
- Amity Institute of Public Health & Hospital Administration, Amity University, Noida, IND
| | - Mohd Shannawaz
- Amity Institute of Public Health & Hospital Administration, Amity University, Noida, IND
| | - Arunima Koul
- Amity Institute of Public Health & Hospital Administration, Amity University, Noida, IND
| | - Kanika Arora
- Amity Institute of Public Health & Hospital Administration, Amity University, Noida, IND
| | - Bhavna Kumar
- School of Pharmaceuticals and Population Health Informatics, DIT University, Dehradun, IND
| | - Neeraj Kumar Sethiya
- School of Pharmaceuticals and Population Health Informatics, DIT University, Dehradun, IND
| | - Shamimul Hasan
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, IND
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16
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Guldemond N. What is meant by 'integrated personalized diabetes management': A view into the future and what success should look like. Diabetes Obes Metab 2024; 26 Suppl 1:14-29. [PMID: 38328815 DOI: 10.1111/dom.15476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Integrated personalized diabetes management (IPDM) has emerged as a promising approach to improving outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). This care approach emphasizes the integration and coordination of different providers, including physicians, nurses, dietitians, social workers and pharmacists. The goal of IPDM is to provide patients with personalized care that is tailored to their needs. This review addresses the concept of integrated care and the use of technology (including data, software applications and artificial intelligence) as well as managerial, regulatory and financial aspects. The implementation and upscaling of digitally enabled IPDM are discussed, with elaboration of successful practices and related evidence. Finally, recommendations are made. It is concluded that the adoption of digitally enabled IPDM on a global level is inevitable, considering the challenges created by an increasing prevalence of patients with DM and the need for better outcomes and improvement of health system sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Guldemond
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, Netherlands
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17
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Su XV, Isnani S, Sharifah Khadijah WMS, Shareezan HS, Lau LK, Maziah I, Ahmad Tajuddin NA, Chan CW. Perception of primary care doctors towards telemedicine in Kuching, Sarawak: A cross-sectional study. MALAYSIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS OF MALAYSIA 2024; 19:10. [PMID: 38496772 PMCID: PMC10944642 DOI: 10.51866/oa.505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Telemedicine is the provision of healthcare remotely via information and communications technology (ICT). This study aimed to assess the familiarity and factors related to the perception towards telemedicine and the willingness to practise telemedicine among primary care doctors. Methods A multi-centre cross-sectional study was conducted prospectively at all public healthcare clinics across Kuching, Sarawak. A questionnaire was adapted and modified from an overseas validated questionnaire, consisting of four parts: demographic data, familiarity towards telemedicine, factors related to the perception of telemedicine and willingness to implement telemedicine. Results A total of 131 doctors were recruited. Of them, 43.5% had never interacted with patients via email, WhatsApp or Telegram, while 68.7% had never attended any conferences, speeches or meetings regarding telemedicine. The doctors had low familiarity towards guidelines, technology and medical applications of telemedicine. The majority agreed on the ability of telemedicine to save patients' time and money, the potential of ICT in healthcare and the necessity during a pandemic but perceived the possibility of technical difficulties. The doctors who had experience in interacting with patients via email, WhatsApp or Telegram (P=0.001) and those who had ≤8 years of working experience (P=0.04) had a significantly better perception towards telemedicine. Conclusion Although the familiarity towards telemedicine among public primary care doctors is low, their perception is good in a majority of areas. Adequate technological support and continuous education on telemedicine and its guidelines, especially medicolegal issues, are imperative to adopt and propagate telemedicine in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Vin Su
- MD, Klinik Kesihatan Petra Jaya, Jalan Siol, Kanan, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
| | - Sutiman Isnani
- MD, Klinik Kesihatan Petra Jaya, Jalan Siol, Kanan, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | | | - Hoklai Sarudu Shareezan
- MD, Klinik Kesihatan Batu Kawa, Jalan Stapok Utara, Taman Stapok, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Lih Kai Lau
- MD, Klinik Kesihatan Batu Kawa, Jalan Stapok Utara, Taman Stapok, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Ishak Maziah
- MD, MFamMed, Klinik Kesihatan Petra Jaya, Jalan Siol, Kanan, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Nur Amani Ahmad Tajuddin
- MBBS, MFamMed, Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chun Wai Chan
- MD, MPH, DABFM, Department of Family Medicine, International Medical University, Jalan Rasah, Seremban, Negeri, Sembilan, Malaysia
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Iguacel I, Antón I, Urcola F, Ariño M, Martínez-Jarreta B. Assessing patient satisfaction with telephone-based consultations before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain. Aten Primaria 2024; 56:102792. [PMID: 37924620 PMCID: PMC10654540 DOI: 10.1016/j.aprim.2023.102792] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To validate a questionnaire to analyze the perception of users of primary care (PC) with telephone consultation (TC), and to study the satisfaction with TC by users of PC services. DESIGN A two-phase study was conducted. Firstly, a questionnaire on satisfaction with telemedicine services was validated. Secondly, a cross-sectional study on satisfaction with TC was conducted. SETTING PC. PARTICIPANTS 405 users of PC services in Zaragoza (Spain). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Our main outcome was the satisfaction with telemedicine services PC services. Factor analysis was carried out using the exploratory factor analysis with Varimax rotation. The reliability of the dimensions obtained was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha. The inferential analysis was conducted using parametric tests. RESULTS The questionnaire was a valid and reliable tool (α>0.9) to assess the satisfaction of PC service users with telemedicine services. Before COVID-19, the satisfaction of the users with PC was adequate (mean=6111/10). However, during the COVID-19 the attention in PC centers became mostly telephone-based and satisfaction lowered as disappointing (mean=3555/10). Regarding the future of telemedicine, users considered it as unsatisfactory (mean=2977/10). Being a woman, being unemployed and belonging to an area of low vulnerability led to a worse perception of telemedicine. CONCLUSION This questionnaire was a valid and reliable tool to assess the satisfaction of PC service users with telemedicine services. Perceptions of patient satisfaction decreased during COVID-19. Thus, TC seems to be a good option when the patients consider it to be a complementary rather than a substitute tool to follow-up their conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Iguacel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Antón
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; SAPIENF (B53_23R), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Fernando Urcola
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; SAPIENF (B53_23R), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Miguel Ariño
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; SAPIENF (B53_23R), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Begoña Martínez-Jarreta
- Scientific Research Group GIIS-063 of Aragon Institute of Health, Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Gujral K, Scott JY, Dismuke-Greer CE, Jiang H, Wong E, Yoon J. The Clinical Resource Hub Telehealth Program and Use of Primary Care, Emergency, and Inpatient Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:118-126. [PMID: 38252242 PMCID: PMC10937884 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08476-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted delivery of health care services worldwide. We examined the impact of the pandemic on clinics participating in the Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinical Resource Hub (CRH) program, rolled out nationally in October 2019, to improve access to care at under-resourced VA clinics or "spoke" sites through telehealth services delivered by regional "hub" sites. OBJECTIVE To assess whether the CRH program was associated with increased access to primary care, we compared use of primary, emergency, and inpatient care at sites that adopted CRH for primary care (CRH-PC) with sites that did not adopt CRH-PC, pre-post pandemic onset. DESIGN Difference-in-difference and event study analyses, adjusting for site characteristics. STUDY COHORT A total of 1050 sites (254 CRH-PC sites; 796 comparison sites), fiscal years (FY) 2019-2021. INTERVENTION CRH Program for Primary Care. MAIN MEASURES Quarterly number of VA visits per site for primary care (across all and by modality, in-person, video, and phone), emergency care, and inpatient care. RESULTS In adjusted analyses, CRH-PC sites, compared with non-CRH-PC sites, had on average 221 additional primary care visits (a volume increase of 3.4% compared to pre-pandemic). By modality, CRH-PC sites had 643 fewer in-person visits post-pandemic (- 14.4%) but 723 and 128 more phone and video visits (+ 39.9% and + 159.5%), respectively. CRH-PC sites, compared with non-CRH-PC sites, had fewer VA ED visits (- 4.2%) and hospital stays (- 5.1%) in VA medical centers. Examining visits per patient, we found that CRH-PC sites had 48 additional telephone primary care visits per 1000 primary care patients (an increase of 9.8%), compared to non-program sites. CONCLUSIONS VA's pre-pandemic rollout of a new primary care telehealth program intended to improve access facilitated primary care visits during the pandemic, a period fraught with care disruptions, and limited in-person health care delivery, indicating the potential for the program to offer health system resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kritee Gujral
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA.
| | - Jennifer Y Scott
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Clara E Dismuke-Greer
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Hao Jiang
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Emily Wong
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Jean Yoon
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Department of General Internal Medicine, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Atkinson-Graham M, Brunton G, Cancelliere C, Corso M, de Zoete A, Rubinstein SM, Murnaghan K, Mior S. Care at a distance: Understanding lived experiences of people with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth: A systematic rapid review. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241236573. [PMID: 38495858 PMCID: PMC10943750 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241236573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about lived experience of synchronous telehealth in patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. Objective We conducted a rapid systematic review to answer: (1) what are the lived experiences and/or perspectives of people with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth; and (2) what clinical implications can be inferred from qualitative studies focusing on lived experiences for how telehealth is delivered in the management of MSK disorders? Data sources A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ProQuest, and Google Scholar from June 2010 to July 2023. Eligible qualitative and mixed methods studies capturing lived experiences of adults with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions via synchronous telehealth were included. Study methods Systematic rapid review conducted according to WHO guidelines. Titles and abstracts screened by reviewers independently, eligible studies critically appraised, and data was extracted. Themes summarized using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) used to assess confidence in synthesis findings. Results We identified 9782 references, screened 8029, and critically appraised 22, and included 17 studies. There is evidence to suggest that the experience of telehealth prior to and during the pandemic was shaped by (1) patient perception of telehealth, (2) existing relationships with practitioners, (3) availability and accessibility of telehealth technologies, and (4) perceptions about the importance of the role of the physical exam in assessing and treating MSK disorders. Conclusion The five identified implications could be used to inform future research, policy, and strategy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Atkinson-Graham
- Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Research and Innovation, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto ON, Canada
| | - Ginny Brunton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, and Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Carol Cancelliere
- Faculty of Health Sciences, and Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa Corso
- Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Annemarie de Zoete
- Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sidney M Rubinstein
- Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kent Murnaghan
- Library Sciences, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto ON, Canada
| | - Silvano Mior
- Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Research and Innovation, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto ON, Canada
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Katz C, Robles N, Novillo-Ortiz D, Saigí-Rubió F. Selection of criteria for a telemedicine framework for designing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating telemedicine interventions: Validation using a modified Delphi process. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241251951. [PMID: 38726219 PMCID: PMC11080763 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241251951] [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] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The call to scale up telemedicine services globally as part of the digital health transformation lacks an agreed-upon set of constructs to guide the implementation process. A lack of guidance hinders the development, consolidation, sustainability and optimisation of telemedicine services. The study aims to reach consensus among telemedicine experts on a set of implementation constructs to be developed into an evidence-based support tool. Methods A modified Delphi study was conducted to evaluate a set of evidence-informed telemedicine implementation constructs comprising cores, domains and items. The study evaluated the constructs consisting of five cores: Assessment of the Current Situation, Development of a Telemedicine Strategy, Development of Organisational Changes, Development of a Telemedicine Service, and Monitoring, Evaluation and Optimisation of Telemedicine Implementation; seven domains: Individual Readiness, Organisational Readiness, Clinical, Economic, Technological and Infrastructure, Regulation, and Monitoring, Evaluation and Optimisation; divided into 53 items. Global telemedicine specialists (n = 247) were invited to participate and evaluate 58 questions. Consensus was set at ≥70%. Results Forty-five experts completed the survey. Consensus was reached on 78% of the constructs evaluated. Regarding the core constructs, Monitoring, Evaluation and Optimisation of Telemedicine Implementation was determined to be the most important one, and Development of a Telemedicine Strategy the least. As for the domains, the Clinical one had the highest level of consensus, and the Economic one had the lowest. Conclusions This research advances the field of telemedicine, providing expert consensus on a set of implementation constructs. The findings also highlight considerable divergence in expert opinion on the constructs of reimbursement and incentive mechanisms, resistance to change, and telemedicine champions. The lack of agreement on these constructs warrants attention and may partly explain the barriers that telemedicine services continue to face in the implementation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che Katz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noemí Robles
- eHealth Centre, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Novillo-Ortiz
- Division of Country Health Policies and Systems, World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Francesc Saigí-Rubió
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Barcelona, Spain
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Vista FES, Tamondong-Lachica DR. A comparison of the characteristics of adult medicine patients seeking telemedicine consultations versus in-person consultations in a Philippine public hospital. Proc AMIA Symp 2023; 37:80-88. [PMID: 38173998 PMCID: PMC10761184 DOI: 10.1080/08998280.2023.2263255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Telemedicine employs the use of technology to increase access to health care. This is especially relevant in developing countries where accessibility is an important issue. In developed countries, studies have shown that despite greater availability and accessibility, there are still disparities in telemedicine use. In the Philippines, however, it is unknown what factors are related to telemedicine use since its underutilization precludes proper characterization of telemedicine patients. We sought to compare the characteristics of telemedicine patients and patients consulting in-person in the internal medicine outpatient department of a Philippine public hospital. Methods This is a retrospective descriptive study. Chart reviews were done for patients who consulted from May 2021 to July 2021. They were classified as either having telemedicine consults only or having in-person consults only. Each group was characterized and compared according to demographics, socioeconomic characteristics, health behaviors, and reasons for consultation. Results Unadjusted analyses showed that younger, single, or employed individuals were more likely to use telemedicine. However, in adjusted analyses, no demographic factors were associated with telemedicine use. Only the patient type and medical concern were significantly different between patient groups in this public hospital setting. New patients and those consulting for clearance/referral purposes or endocrine-related symptoms were more likely to seek teleconsults. Conclusions The findings showed which patients are more likely to use telemedicine in the Philippines. Continued telemedicine use for these patients should be explored to complement in-person medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana R. Tamondong-Lachica
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
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Pedersen GA, Elnasseh A, Bhattacharya B, Moran L, Neupane V, Galea JT, Contreras C, Pfeffer KA, Brown A, Sangraula M, Luitel N, Kohrt BA. Practitioners' perspectives on preparing for and delivering remote psychological support in Nepal, Perú and the United States during COVID-19. Psychol Psychother 2023; 96:849-867. [PMID: 37294035 PMCID: PMC10709530 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has propelled a global paradigm shift in how psychological support is delivered. Remote delivery, through phone and video calls, is now commonplace around the world. However, most adoption of remote delivery methods is occurring without any formal training to ensure safe and effective care. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this applied qualitative study was to determine practitioners' experiences of rapidly adapting to deliver psychological support remotely during COVID-19. DESIGN We used a pragmatic paradigm and applied approach to gain perspectives related to the feasibility and perceived usefulness of synchronous remote psychological support, including views on how practitioners can be prepared. METHODS Key informant interviews were conducted remotely with 27 specialist and non-specialist practitioners in Nepal, Perú and the USA. Interviewees were identified through purposeful sampling. Data were analysed using framework analysis. RESULTS Respondents revealed three key themes: (i) Remote delivery of psychological support raises unique safety concerns and interference with care, (ii) Remote delivery enhances skills and expands opportunities for delivery of psychological support to new populations, and (iii) New training approaches are needed to prepare specialist and non-specialist practitioners to deliver psychological support remotely. CONCLUSIONS Remote psychological support is feasible and useful for practitioners, including non-specialists, in diverse global settings. Simulated remote role plays may be a scalable method for ensuring competency in safe and effective remotely-delivered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria A. Pedersen
- The Center for Global Mental Health Equity, The George Washington University
| | - Abdelrhman Elnasseh
- The Center for Global Mental Health Equity, The George Washington University
| | - Bani Bhattacharya
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University
| | | | | | - Jerome T. Galea
- School of Social Work, University of South Florida
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School
| | - Carmen Contreras
- Socios En Salud Sucursal Perú
- Harvard Global Health Institute, Harvard University
| | | | - Adam Brown
- Department of Psychology, The New School for Social Research
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine
| | | | | | - Brandon A. Kohrt
- The Center for Global Mental Health Equity, The George Washington University
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Albahri AH, Alnaqbi SA, Alnaqbi SA, Shorbagi S. Telemedicine perception and interest among medical students at the University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, 2023. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:892. [PMID: 37993860 PMCID: PMC10666329 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04859-0] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine is becoming an integral part of healthcare. Training medical students in telemedicine is encouraged by many medical organizations. However, in the United Arab Emirates in particular, most medical schools have not incorporated it into their curriculum. Therefore, this study aims to assess medical students' perceptions and interest in telemedicine teaching at the University of Sharjah, UAE. METHODS A questionnaire-based survey was built based on the current literature and was distributed to all medical students at the University of Sharjah between February and March 2023. The questionnaire assessed the participants for their demographic data, access to and use of digital devices, exposure to and beliefs related to telemedicine, and their medical school experience with distance learning and telemedicine. The data were analyzed via simple statistics, and the Chi-square test was used to assess the associated factors affecting the participants' interest in receiving telemedicine teaching. RESULTS The questionnaire had a 70.4% (547/777) response rate. The mean age (SD) of the participants was 20.7 years (1.57), and the majority were female (68.4%). Over 98% of the students reported having easy access to and being comfortable with using computers and the internet. Most students (90.5%) believed that the medical school curriculum should include teaching in telemedicine; however, 78.2% of these students stated that it should be included as an elective course. The participants' interest in receiving teaching in telemedicine had a statistically significant association with the following factors: being female, being familiar with telemedicine, having read literature on telemedicine, having beliefs that telemedicine is an opportunity to improve current medical practice, that its use should be encouraged, that it has an important role to play in healthcare, that it does not pose greater threat to current medical practice, having a preference to continue distance learning at medical school and having an interest in incorporating telemedicine in their future careers. CONCLUSIONS It is an ideal time to incorporate telemedicine into the medical curriculum at the University of Sharjah with most students expressing interest in it. However, further research is needed to assess its applicability to other medical schools in the country and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz H Albahri
- Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Shatha A Alnaqbi
- Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shahad A Alnaqbi
- Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sarra Shorbagi
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Parameshwarappa PM, Olickal JJ. Telemedicine Awareness and the Preferred Digital Healthcare Tools: A Community-based Cross-sectional Study from Rural Karnataka, India. Indian J Community Med 2023; 48:915-919. [PMID: 38249713 PMCID: PMC10795884 DOI: 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_770_22] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Indian government launched national teleconsultation services (eSanjeevani OPD) to provide safe doctor-to-patient consultations. This study aimed to determine the awareness and willingness to seek services from eSanjeevani OPDs. Material and Methods This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in Nandigudi village, Karnataka. The total sample size was 273, and participants were recruited using a systematic sampling technique. Results The prevalence of awareness about teleconsultations was 2.2% (n = 6, 95% CI: 0.8-4.7%). None of the participants utilized eSanjeevani services in the last year. Approximately 56.0% (n = 153, 95% CI: 49.9-62.0%) were willing to use eSanjeevani OPD. "Not being familiar" (n = 99, 82.5%) with eSanjeevani OPD was the major reason for unwillingness to use teleconsultation, and 73.8% (n = 113) preferred video calls as the mode of communication. Conclusion The majority of the participants were not aware of and were unwilling to use eSanjeevani OPD. Therefore, healthcare professionals should focus more on creating awareness of teleconsultations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeby Jose Olickal
- Department of Public Health, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi, Kerala, India
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Terrill K, Woodall H, Evans R, Sen Gupta T, Ward R, Brumpton K. Cultural safety in telehealth consultations with Indigenous people: A scoping review of global literature. J Telemed Telecare 2023:1357633X231203874. [PMID: 37849289 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x231203874] [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: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telehealth has become increasingly routine within healthcare and has potential to reduce barriers to care, including for Indigenous populations. However, it is crucial for practitioners to first ensure that their telehealth practice is culturally safe. This review aims to describe the attributes of culturally safe telehealth consultations for Indigenous people as well as strategies that could promote cultural safety. METHODS A scoping review was conducted on key features of cultural safety in telehealth for Indigenous people using the Johanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and PRISMA-ScR checklist. Five electronic databases were searched, and additional literature was identified through handsearching. RESULTS A total of 649 articles were screened resulting in 17 articles included in the review. The central themes related to the provision of culturally safe telehealth refer to attributes of the practitioner: cultural and community knowledge, communication skills and the building and maintenance of patient-provider relationships. These practitioner attributes are modified and shaped by external environmental factors: technology, the availability of support staff and the telehealth setting. DISCUSSION This review identified practitioner-led features which enhance cultural safety but also recognised the structural factors that can contribute, both positively and negatively, to the cultural safety of a telehealth interaction. For some individuals, telehealth is not a comfortable or acceptable form of care. However, if strategies are undertaken to make telehealth more culturally safe, it has the potential to increase opportunities for access to care and thus contribute towards reducing health inequalities faced by Indigenous peoples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Terrill
- Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - Hannah Woodall
- Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, QLD, Australia
- Rural Medical Education Australia, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia
| | | | | | - Raelene Ward
- University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia
| | - Kay Brumpton
- Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, QLD, Australia
- Rural Medical Education Australia, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia
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27
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Cai PY, Balthazar A, Logvinenko T, Nelson CP, Finkelstein JB. Accuracy of telemedicine for diagnosis and pre-operative assessment of pediatric penile conditions. J Pediatr Urol 2023; 19:521.e1-521.e7. [PMID: 37055341 PMCID: PMC11211001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2023.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with penile conditions comprise a significant proportion of any pediatric urology practice, and physical examination is the mainstay of diagnosis for such conditions. While the rapid adoption of telemedicine (TM) facilitated access to pediatric urology care during the pandemic, the accuracy of TM-based diagnosis for pediatric penile anatomy and pathology has not been studied. Our aim was to characterize the diagnostic accuracy of TM-based evaluation of pediatric penile conditions by comparing diagnosis during the initial virtual visit (VV) with a subsequent in-person visit (IPV). We also sought to assess the agreement between scheduled and actual surgical procedure performed. METHODS A single-institution prospective database of male patients less than 21 years of age who presented for evaluation of penile conditions between August 2020 and December 2021 was analyzed. Patients were included if they had an IPV with the same pediatric urologist within 12 months of the initial VV. Diagnostic concordance was based on a surgeon-reported survey of specific penile diagnoses, completed at both initial VV and follow-up IPV. Surgical concordance was assessed based on the proposed versus billed CPT code(s). RESULTS Median age among 158 patients was 10.6 months. The most frequent VV diagnoses were penile adhesions (n = 37), phimosis (n = 26), "other" (n = 24), post-circumcision redundancy (n = 18), and buried penis (n = 14). Initial VV and subsequent IPV diagnoses were concordant in 40.5% (64/158); 40/158 (25%) had partial concordance (at least one diagnosis matched). There was no difference in age, race, ethnicity, median time between visits, or device type between patients with concordant vs. discordant diagnoses. Of 102 patients who underwent surgery, 44 had VV only while 58 had IPV prior to surgery. Concordance of scheduled versus actual penile surgery was 90.9% in those patients who only had a VV prior to surgery. Overall, surgery concordance was lower among those with hypospadias repairs vs. non-hypospadias surgery (79.4% vs. 92.6%, p = 0.05). CONCLUSION Among pediatric patients being evaluated by TM for penile conditions, there was poor agreement between VV-based and IPV-based diagnoses. However, besides hypospadias repairs, agreement between planned and actual surgical procedures performed was high, suggesting that TM-based assessment is generally adequate for surgical planning in this population. These findings leave open the possibility that, among patients not scheduled for surgery or IPV, certain conditions might be misdiagnosed or missed entirely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Y Cai
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Hunnewell 3, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Andrea Balthazar
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Hunnewell 3, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Tanya Logvinenko
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Hunnewell 3, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Caleb P Nelson
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Hunnewell 3, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Julia B Finkelstein
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Hunnewell 3, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Fang JL, Umoren R, Whyte H, Limjoco J, Makkar A, Yankanah R, McCoy M, Lo MD, Colby CE, Herrin J, Jacobson RM, Demaerschalk BM. Provider Perspectives on the Acceptability, Appropriateness, and Feasibility of Teleneonatology. Am J Perinatol 2023; 40:1521-1528. [PMID: 34583392 DOI: 10.1055/a-1656-6363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to measure provider perspectives on the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of teleneonatology in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and community hospitals. STUDY DESIGN Providers from five academic tertiary NICUs and 27 community hospitals were surveyed using validated implementation measures to assess the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of teleneonatology. For each of the 12 statements, scale values ranged from 1 to 5 (1 = strongly disagree; 5 = strongly agree), with higher scores indicating greater positive perceptions. Survey results were summarized, and differences across respondents assessed using generalized linear models. RESULTS The survey response rate was 56% (203/365). Respondents found teleneonatology to be acceptable, appropriate, and feasible. The percent of respondents who agreed with each of the twelve statements ranged from 88.6 to 99.0%, with mean scores of 4.4 to 4.7 and median scores of 4.0 to 5.0. There was no difference in the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of teleneonatology when analyzed by professional role, years of experience in neonatal care, or years of teleneonatology experience. Respondents from Level I well newborn nurseries had greater positive perceptions of teleneonatology than those from Level II special care nurseries. CONCLUSION Providers in tertiary NICUs and community hospitals perceive teleneonatology to be highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible for their practices. The wide acceptance by providers of all roles and levels of experience likely demonstrates a broad receptiveness to telemedicine as a tool to deliver neonatal care, particularly in rural communities where specialists are unavailable. KEY POINTS · Neonatal care providers perceive teleneonatology to be highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible.. · Perceptions of teleneonatology do not differ based on professional role or years of experience.. · Perceptions of teleneonatology are especially high in smaller hospitals with well newborn nurseries..
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Fang
- Division of Neonatal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Rachel Umoren
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington & Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Hilary Whyte
- Division of Neonatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie Limjoco
- Division of Neonatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Abhishek Makkar
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Rosanna Yankanah
- Division of Neonatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mike McCoy
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Mark D Lo
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington & Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Christopher E Colby
- Division of Neonatal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jeph Herrin
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Robert M Jacobson
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Bart M Demaerschalk
- Department of Neurology and Center for Connected Care, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Scottsdale, Arizona
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Habbash F, Rabeeah A, Huwaidi Z, Abuobaidah H, Alqabbat J, Hayyan F, Almarabheh A, Al Sindi H, Ben Salah A. Telemedicine in non-communicable chronic diseases care during the COVID-19 pandemic: exploring patients' perspectives. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1270069. [PMID: 37818295 PMCID: PMC10560720 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1270069] [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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to explore challenges facing patients using Telemedicine consultations in non-communicable chronic disease clinics in primary care settings and to evaluate their satisfaction and willingness to use this service in the future. Methods This is an analytical cross-sectional study enrolling participants who were randomly selected from representative primary care centers in Bahrain and providing Telemedicine consultations. A semi-structured questionnaire permitted data collection using telephone interviews. Results A total of 251 individuals participated in the study of whom the majority were Bahraini (90.04%), and the mean age was 54.48 ± 10.78 years. Most of the participants 231 (92.03%) were satisfied with the Telemedicine consultation while only 142 (56.80%) were willing to use this service in the future. The main perceived challenges related to Teleconsultations were the lack of physical examination, inadequate time of TM consultation, fear of medical errors, and lack of privacy. The willingness to use TM consultation in the future was mainly determined by the degree of comfort to tell private information (p < 0.01) and to less extent the ease of the communication tool (p = 0.005) on multivariate analysis. Conclusion TM consultations could be a good complement to conventional consultation formats in the future. The sustainability of this innovative healthcare delivery tool requires addressing acceptability by users, ease of use, patient-centeredness, and technological advances to ensure privacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatema Habbash
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Family Medicine, University Medical Center King Abdullah Medical City Bahrain, Manama, Bahrain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Amer Almarabheh
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | | | - Afif Ben Salah
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Institute Pasteur de Tunis, Department of Medical Epidemiology, Tunis, Tunisia
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Button D, Levander XA, Cook RR, Miller WC, Salisbury-Afshar EM, Tsui JI, Ibragimov U, Jenkins WD, Westergaard RP, Korthuis PT. Substance use disorder treatment and technology access among people who use drugs in rural areas of the United States: A cross-sectional survey. J Rural Health 2023; 39:772-779. [PMID: 36575145 PMCID: PMC10293469 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12737] [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: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate how technology access affected substance use disorder (SUD) treatment prior to COVID-19 for people who use drugs in rural areas. METHODS The Rural Opioid Initiative (January 2018-March 2020) was a cross-sectional study of people with prior 30-day injection drug or nonprescribed opioid use from rural areas of 10 states. Using multivariable mixed-effect regression models, we examined associations between participant technology access and SUD treatment. FINDINGS Of 3,026 participants, 71% used heroin and 76% used methamphetamine. Thirty-five percent had no cell phone and 10% had no prior 30-day internet use. Having both a cell phone and the internet was associated with increased days of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) use (aIRR 1.29 [95% CI 1.11-1.52]) and a higher likelihood of SUD counseling in the prior 30 days (aOR 1.28 [95% CI 1.05-1.57]). Lack of cell phone was associated with decreased days of MOUD (aIRR 0.77 [95% CI 0.66-0.91]) and a lower likelihood of prior 30-day SUD counseling (aOR 0.77 [95% CI 0.62-0.94]). CONCLUSIONS Expanding US rural SUD treatment engagement via telemedicine may require increased cell phone and mobile network access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Button
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ximena A. Levander
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ryan R. Cook
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - William C. Miller
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Salisbury-Afshar
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Judith I. Tsui
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Umedjon Ibragimov
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wiley D. Jenkins
- Department of Population Science and Policy, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Ryan P. Westergaard
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - P. Todd Korthuis
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Bártlová S, Chloubová I, Tóthová V, Hellerová V, Kimmerová J, Dolák F, Shivairová O, Kimmer D, Chrdle A. Telenursing during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Czech Republic-representative sociological survey. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19081. [PMID: 37636379 PMCID: PMC10448457 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sylva Bártlová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Chloubová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Valérie Tóthová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Věra Hellerová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Kimmerová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - František Dolák
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Olga Shivairová
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Humanities in Helping Professions, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - David Kimmer
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Laboratory Diagnostics and Public Health, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Chrdle
- University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Emergency Care, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Hospital České Budějovice, Infectious Disease Department, a. S., B. Němcové 585/54, 37001, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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Buja A, Grotto G, Taha M, Cocchio S, Baldo V. Use of Information and Communication Technology Strategies to Increase Vaccination Coverage in Older Adults: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1274. [PMID: 37515089 PMCID: PMC10384530 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coverage rates of routinely recommended vaccines in older adults still fall below the targets established by international and national advisory committees. As a result, related diseases still have a high incidence, morbidity, and mortality. Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) could provide useful tools to improve immunization rates by bringing information directly to the target user at a relatively low cost. The present research aims to systematically review recent literature on interventions applying ICT to improve the uptake of influenza, pneumococcal, COVID-19 and herpes zoster immunization rates among older adults. METHODS Studies published in English between 1 January 2000 and 10 November 2022 were identified by searching electronic medical databases (PubMed, Scopus) and were independently reviewed by two different authors. A total of 22 studies were included in this review. FINDINGS Interventions applied the following ICT tools: phone calls, text messages, messages sent via personal electronic medical records, automated phone calls, remote patient monitoring in a home telehealth program and emails. In terms of the vaccines promoted, 11 studies prompted the influenza vaccine, four prompted the influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, three the pneumococcal vaccine, two the herpes zoster vaccine, one the COVID-19 vaccine and one both the pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines. Overall, more than half of the studies (n = 12) found some level of effectiveness of these ICT strategies in increasing vaccination rates among older adults, while five studies were partially effective (for specific vaccines or population subgroups), and five reported no significant effect. CONCLUSIONS Prevention programs using ICT tools could be effective in promoting immunizations among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Buja
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Giulia Grotto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Mustapha Taha
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Silvia Cocchio
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Baldo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
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El Kheir DYM, AlMasmoom NS, Eskander MK, Alshamrani RA, Alwohaibi RN, AlTheeb FN, Aleid BA. Perception of Saudi undergraduate medical students on telemedicine training and its implementation. J Family Community Med 2023; 30:231-238. [PMID: 37675211 PMCID: PMC10479026 DOI: 10.4103/jfcm.jfcm_41_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of telemedicine has increased considerably in healthcare delivery, especially during this time of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It has, therefore, become necessary to train medical students to better equip them for this new means of healthcare delivery. The aim of the present study was to assess the perception of undergraduate medical students on telemedicine training. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 521 undergraduate medical students studying in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected via a self-administered pretested questionnaire comprising two main sections: demographics and knowledge and opinions regarding telemedicine training. RESULTS About 73% students think that the use of telemedicine for patient care will increase in the future, and 59.3% think that the medical students should be trained in telemedicine. Majority of the students (78%) opined that telemedicine training should be optional and 58% said it should be taught during the clinical phase of the undergraduate curriculum. The best telemedicine training course learning objectives medical students opined to be included were: telemedicine practical skills (70.2%), legal aspects of telemedicine practice (68.3%), and potential positive and/or negative use of telemedicine tools and methods (67.6%). Telemedicine skills students would like to learn how to effectively engage patients, knowledge about telemedicine regulations and the consequences of breaching them. CONCLUSION Medical students are aware of the importance of incorporating telemedicine training into the medical curriculum. Training these students is vital to ensure their competence as physicians in their future clinical careers, that is make them a digitally health-literate future workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Y. M. El Kheir
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nour S. AlMasmoom
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariam K. Eskander
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem A. Alshamrani
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rawaa N. Alwohaibi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah N. AlTheeb
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bedour A. Aleid
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Cuomo A, Marinangeli F, Magni A, Petrucci E, Vittori A, Cascella M. Investigating Functional Impairment in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Qualitative Study from the Patients and Specialists' Perspectives. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1012. [PMID: 37374001 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13061012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Prompt and appropriate treatment of chronic low back pain (cLBP) is of the utmost importance for preventing relevant disability, high burden of disease, and increasing costs for the healthcare system. Recently, the concept of functional impairment has been associated with any type of chronic pain, and mounting attention has been paid to extending the aims of treatment beyond mere pain remission, including restoration of working capacity, everyday functioning, mobility, and quality of life. Nevertheless, a shared definition of functionality is still lacking. Notably, different specialists involved in the treatment of cLBP such as general practitioners, orthopedists, pain therapists, and physiatrists, and patients themselves have different opinions on what "functional impairment" actually means. On these premises, a qualitative interview study was performed to investigate how the concept of "functionality" is interpreted by different specialists involved in the management of cLBP, and by patients. Overall, all different specialists agreed that functionality should be assessed in clinical practice. However, in spite of several instruments available for evaluating functionality, no homogeneity of behavior is observable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Cuomo
- Division of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Franco Marinangeli
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Treatment, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito, Italy
| | - Alberto Magni
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care (SIMG), Via del Sansovino 179, 50142 Firenze, Italy
| | - Emiliano Petrucci
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, San Salvatore Academic Hospital of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vittori
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, ARCO ROMA, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù IRCCS, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cascella
- Division of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
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Andronic O, Petrescu GED, Artamonov AR, Bolocan A, Rădăvoi D, Bran M, Stănescu AMA, Jinga V, Busnatu Ș. Healthcare Professionals' Specialists' Perception of Telemedicine in Romania-A Quantitative Study of Beliefs, Practices, and Expectations. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11111552. [PMID: 37297692 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11111552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine is the service of delivering medical care from a distance through the means of modern technology. It has many advantages, including improved access, decreased costs for both patients and clinics, more flexibility and availability, as well as more precise and individualized therapies. However, it is equally important to take into consideration all the challenges associated with this innovative way of providing care. This virtual technology has had an exponential growth, especially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, because it delivers great outcomes and suggests exciting future promises. METHODS The study involved the collection of responses from an online questionnaire comprising 26 questions that was distributed to healthcare professionals in Romania. RESULTS The questionnaire was completed by a number of 1017 healthcare professionals. We investigated and analyzed whether telehealth is seen as an important constituent of the healthcare system, if it is perceived as necessary, safe, well-managed by lawmakers, and easy to use, what advantages it has, what common practices specialists already employ and, additionally, the openness toward becoming more digitally educated for the purpose of streamlining the use of telemedicine. CONCLUSIONS This paper reports on the perception of telemedicine among healthcare professionals in Romania, as constructive feedback represents an essential piece of the puzzle in assuring the smooth transition toward this facet of modern healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavian Andronic
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - George E D Petrescu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Bagdasar-Arseni Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrada Raluca Artamonov
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Bolocan
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Rădăvoi
- Theodor Burghele Clinical Hospital, 061344 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Bran
- Colțea Clinical Hospital, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Viorel Jinga
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Theodor Burghele Clinical Hospital, 061344 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ștefan Busnatu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Bagdasar-Arseni Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
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Land MR, Patel PA, Bui T, Jiao C, Ali A, Ibnamasud S, Patel PN, Sheth V. Examining the Role of Telemedicine in Diabetic Retinopathy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12103537. [PMID: 37240642 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12103537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increasing prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR), screening is of the utmost importance to prevent vision loss for patients and reduce financial costs for the healthcare system. Unfortunately, it appears that the capacity of optometrists and ophthalmologists to adequately perform in-person screenings of DR will be insufficient within the coming years. Telemedicine offers the opportunity to expand access to screening while reducing the economic and temporal burden associated with current in-person protocols. The present literature review summarizes the latest developments in telemedicine for DR screening, considerations for stakeholders, barriers to implementation, and future directions in this area. As the role of telemedicine in DR screening continues to expand, further work will be necessary to continually optimize practices and improve long-term patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Land
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Parth A Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Tommy Bui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Cheng Jiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Arsalan Ali
- Burnett School of Medicine, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
| | - Shadman Ibnamasud
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Prem N Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Veeral Sheth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Retina and Macula Associates, Oak Forest, IL 60452, USA
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Rosta L, Menyhart A, Mahmeed WA, Al-Rasadi K, Al-Alawi K, Banach M, Banerjee Y, Ceriello A, Cesur M, Cosentino F, Firenze A, Galia M, Goh SY, Janez A, Kalra S, Kapoor N, Lessan N, Lotufo P, Papanas N, Rizvi AA, Sahebkar A, Santos RD, Stoian AP, Toth PP, Viswanathan V, Kempler P, Rizzo M. Telemedicine for diabetes management during COVID-19: what we have learnt, what and how to implement. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1129793. [PMID: 37265696 PMCID: PMC10231679 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1129793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The past two decades have witnessed telemedicine becoming a crucial part of health care as a method to facilitate doctor-patient interaction. Due to technological developments and the incremental acquisition of experience in its use, telemedicine's advantages and cost-effectiveness has led to it being recognised as specifically relevant to diabetology. However, the pandemic created new challenges for healthcare systems and the rate of development of digital services started to grow exponentially. It was soon discovered that COVID-19-infected patients with diabetes had an increased risk of both mortality and debilitating sequelae. In addition, it was observed that this higher risk could be attenuated primarily by maintaining optimal control of the patient's glucose metabolism. As opportunities for actual physical doctor-patient visits became restricted, telemedicine provided the most convenient opportunity to communicate with patients and maintain delivery of care. The wide range of experiences of health care provision during the pandemic has led to the development of several excellent strategies regarding the applicability of telemedicine across the whole spectrum of diabetes care. The continuation of these strategies is likely to benefit clinical practice even after the pandemic crisis is over.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adrienn Menyhart
- Department of Medicine and Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Wael Al Mahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Kamila Al-Alawi
- Department of Training and Studies, Royal Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology , Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Lodz, Poland
- Department of Medicine, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), Lodz, Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Yajnavalka Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Antonio Ceriello
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Mustafa Cesur
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Ankara Güven Hospital, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Francesco Cosentino
- Unit of Cardiology, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, University of Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alberto Firenze
- Unit of Research and International Cooperation, University Hospital of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Massimo Galia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (Bind), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Su-Yen Goh
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrej Janez
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sanjay Kalra
- Department of Endocrinology, Bharti Hospital, Karnal, India
| | - Nitin Kapoor
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nader Lessan
- The Research Institute, Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Paulo Lotufo
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, University Hospital, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nikolaos Papanas
- Diabetes Center, Second Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Ali A. Rizvi
- Department of Medicine, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Raul D. Santos
- Heart Institute (InCor), University of Sao Paulo Medical School Hospital, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anca Pantea Stoian
- Faculty of Medicine, Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Carol Davila University, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Peter P. Toth
- Cicarrone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Peter Kempler
- Department of Medicine and Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- Department of Biochemistry, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medicine, Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Carol Davila University, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Promise), School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Maroju RG, Choudhari SG, Shaikh MK, Borkar SK, Mendhe H. Role of Telemedicine and Digital Technology in Public Health in India: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e35986. [PMID: 37050980 PMCID: PMC10085457 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
There are still many areas of India without proper medical facilities. In such a setting, technology can play a facilitating role, particularly in reaching out to remote locations and offering a greater standard of care at a lower cost. The method of treating and diagnosing patients remotely through communication networks is known as telemedicine. When more patients get access to telemedicine, payers take more notice of how much less expensive it is than traditional medicine, and doctors are aware of its benefits. Telemedicine is a more beneficial technology that can expand access to preventive treatment and may lead to long-term health. Telemedicine has the potential to greatly affect public health. This paper reviews the current state of the art of telemedicine in India. Nearly 50 years ago, telemedicine was shrugged off as a complicated, expensive, and inefficient technology. Because of how quickly the information technology and telecommunications disciplines are advancing, telemedicine is today a viable, dependable, and useful technique. Practitioners and medical experts from a variety of fields have experienced success with telemedicine. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for strong primary healthcare networks for a more effective public health response during health emergencies and exposed the fragmentation of healthcare delivery systems. Although primary care is the first point of contact between the general public and the healthcare system, it has not recently grown much focus or funding. Even in the post-COVID-19 environment, telemedicine offers the potential to get through enduring barriers to primary care in India, such as a shortage of qualified medical professionals, issues with access, and the cost of in-person care. Telemedicine has the power to speed up the delivery of universal health coverage while strengthening primary care. There is a widening gap between people and those who offer basic health services as the population in India has grown, and the average lifespan has increased. Telemedicine helps with palliative care, early identification, a better cure, prevention, and rehabilitation in the treatment of cancer. Due to a shortage of primary care delivery networks and referral units, secondary and tertiary care facilities' health systems are overworked. To successfully use telemedicine, proper planning and operating processes are required. Thus, the development and implementation of telemedicine will improve patient care and India's primary healthcare system in the future. Finally, telemedicine's cost-effectiveness will likely be its most significant outcome.
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Yu Y, Zhou R, Qian L, Yang X, Dong L, Zhang G. Supply-demand balance and spatial distribution optimization of primary care facilities in highland cities from a resilience perspective: A study of Lhasa, China. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1131895. [PMID: 36969676 PMCID: PMC10032525 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1131895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe development of urban resilience, which is fundamentally a balance between the supply capacity of primary care resources and the demand from urban residents, includes an appropriate architecture of primary care facilities. Resilient city construction in highland areas is hampered by the physical environment and transportation constraints and frequently encounters issues like poor accessibility and unequal distribution of primary care facilities.MethodsTo optimize the supply and demand of primary care resources in highland cities and effectively improve the resilience of urban public health, this paper assesses the distribution of primary care facilities within the built-up area of Lhasa (China) through a spatial network analysis method based on GIS, combined with population distribution data, and employs a location-allocation model to optimize the distribution.ResultsFirstly, the overall supply of primary care exceeds the overall demand, but the facilities' service area can only accommodate 59% of the residences. Secondly, there is a clear spatial variation in the accessibility of primary care facilities, and the time cost of healthcare is too high in some residences. Thirdly, the supply-demand relationship of primary care facilities is unbalanced, with both over-saturated and over-deficient areas.DiscussionAfter distribution optimization, the coverage and accessibility of primary care facilities have increased significantly, and the spatial imbalance of supply and demand has been alleviated. This paper proposes a research method to evaluate and optimize the spatial distribution of primary care facilities from multiple perspectives based on the resilience theory. The results of the study and visualization analysis methods can be used as an invaluable reference for planning the distribution of urban healthcare facilities and urban resilience construction in highland areas and other underdeveloped areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- School of Architecture, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- School of Architecture, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liyuan Qian
- School of Architecture, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xian Yang
- School of Architecture, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liuyang Dong
- School of Architecture, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guangyuan Zhang
- School of Transportation and Logistics, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Guangyuan Zhang
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Lane J, David K, Ramarao J, Ward K, Raghuraman S, Waheed M, Lau AY. Translating primary care to telehealth: analysis of in-person consultations on diabetes and cardiovascular disease. BJGP Open 2023; 7:BJGPO.2022.0123. [PMID: 36450404 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2022.0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic had a considerable impact on primary care, resulting in rapid uptake of telehealth. Patients with chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD), relied heavily on telehealth consultations during this period. It is important to assess whether tasks observed during T2DM or CVD in-person consultations are translatable to telehealth. AIM To explore the extent to which in-person GP consultations are translatable to telehealth for patients with T2DM or CVD. DESIGN & SETTING This study screened 281 GP consultations conducted in 2017 within the UK general practice setting for consultations pertaining to T2DM or CVD. Seventeen in-person consultations (in deidentified video and transcript) were selected for further analysis. METHOD Detailed reporting of tasks, physical artefacts, and physical examinations observed during in-person GP consultations. A new scoring method, applying two key metrics, supporting definitions and examples, was designed to assess translatability of clinical tasks to telehealth. RESULTS Across the 17 T2DM or CVD in-person consultations analysed, 23 clinical tasks, 21 physical artefacts, and nine physical examinations were observed. Sixty per cent of tasks analysed were deemed either easily or relatively easily translatable to telehealth. Twenty-six per cent of tasks were rated as 'moderately translatable to telehealth' but may require a patient obtaining their own equipment. Thirteen per cent of tasks were rated as 'potentially translatable to telehealth'. No clinical tasks for these cohorts were rated as untranslatable to telehealth. CONCLUSION The majority of tasks observed during T2DM or CVD in-person GP consultations are translatable to telehealth. Further research is warranted to investigate emergent safety concerns from increased uptake of telehealth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared Lane
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katrina David
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jayashanthi Ramarao
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kanesha Ward
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sunayana Raghuraman
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Moomna Waheed
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annie Ys Lau
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Pedersen GA, Pfeffer KA, Brown AD, Carswell K, Willhoite A, Schafer A, Kohrt BA. Identifying Core Competencies for Remote Delivery of Psychological Interventions: A Rapid Review. Psychiatr Serv 2023; 74:292-304. [PMID: 36475826 PMCID: PMC9988705 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.202100677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic led to a rapid shift toward remote delivery of psychological interventions and transition to voice-only and video communication platforms. However, agreement is lacking on key competencies that are aligned with equitable approaches for standardized training and supervision of remote psychological intervention delivery. A rapid review was conducted to identify and describe competencies that could inform best practices of remote services delivery during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Scopus, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO were searched for literature published in English (2015-2021) on competencies for synchronous, remote psychological interventions that can be measured through observation. RESULTS Of 135 articles identified, 12 met inclusion criteria. Studies targeted populations in high-income countries (11 in the United States and Canada, one in Saudi Arabia) and focused on specialist practitioners, professionals, or trainees in professional or prelicensure programs working with adult populations. Ten skill categories were identified: emergency and safety protocols for remote services, facilitating communication over remote platforms, remote consent procedures, technological literacy, practitioner-client identification for remote services, confidentiality during remote services, communication skills during remote services, engagement and interpersonal skills for remote services, establishing professional boundaries during remote services, and encouraging continuity of care during remote services. CONCLUSIONS These 10 skills domains can offer a foundation for refinement of discrete, individual-level competencies that can be aligned with global initiatives promoting use of observational competency assessment during training and supervision programs for psychological interventions. More research is needed on identification of and agreement on remote competencies and on their evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria A. Pedersen
- Division of Global Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry
and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University, 2120 L St NW, Suite 600,
Washington, D.C. 20037, USA
| | - Kendall A. Pfeffer
- Department of Psychology, The New School for Social
Research, 80 5 Avenue, 6 Floor, New York, NY10003,
USA
| | - Adam D. Brown
- Department of Psychology, The New School for Social
Research, 80 5 Avenue, 6 Floor, New York, NY10003,
USA
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of
Medicine, 1 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Kenneth Carswell
- World Health Organization, Department of Mental Health and
Substance Use, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Ann Willhoite
- UNICEF Headquarters, Child Protection in Emergencies; Child
Protection, Programme Division, 3 UN Plaza New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Alison Schafer
- World Health Organization, Department of Mental Health and
Substance Use, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Brandon A. Kohrt
- Division of Global Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry
and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University, 2120 L St NW, Suite 600,
Washington, D.C. 20037, USA
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Cheikh Youssef S, Haram K, Noël J, Patel V, Porter J, Dasgupta P, Hachach-Haram N. Evolution of the digital operating room: the place of video technology in surgery. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2023; 408:95. [PMID: 36807211 PMCID: PMC9939374 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-023-02830-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this review was to collate current evidence wherein digitalisation, through the incorporation of video technology and artificial intelligence (AI), is being applied to the practice of surgery. Applications are vast, and the literature investigating the utility of surgical video and its synergy with AI has steadily increased over the last 2 decades. This type of technology is widespread in other industries, such as autonomy in transportation and manufacturing. METHODS Articles were identified primarily using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases. The MeSH terms used were "surgical education", "surgical video", "video labelling", "surgery", "surgical workflow", "telementoring", "telemedicine", "machine learning", "deep learning" and "operating room". Given the breadth of the subject and the scarcity of high-level data in certain areas, a narrative synthesis was selected over a meta-analysis or systematic review to allow for a focussed discussion of the topic. RESULTS Three main themes were identified and analysed throughout this review, (1) the multifaceted utility of surgical video recording, (2) teleconferencing/telemedicine and (3) artificial intelligence in the operating room. CONCLUSIONS Evidence suggests the routine collection of intraoperative data will be beneficial in the advancement of surgery, by driving standardised, evidence-based surgical care and personalised training of future surgeons. However, many barriers stand in the way of widespread implementation, necessitating close collaboration between surgeons, data scientists, medicolegal personnel and hospital policy makers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jonathan Noël
- Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Urology Centre, King's Health Partners, London, UK
| | - Vipul Patel
- Adventhealth Global Robotics Institute, 400 Celebration Place, Celebration, FL, USA
| | - James Porter
- Department of Urology, Swedish Urology Group, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Prokar Dasgupta
- Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Urology Centre, King's Health Partners, London, UK
| | - Nadine Hachach-Haram
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, King's Health Partners, London, UK
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Basch C, Orellana L, Hensher M, Gao L, Sanigorski A, Mc Namara K, Versace VL, Szakiel J, Swann J, Manias E, Peeters A. Use of General Practitioner Telehealth Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Regional Victoria, Australia: Retrospective Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e39384. [PMID: 36649230 PMCID: PMC9907565 DOI: 10.2196/39384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In March 2020, the Australian Government expanded general practitioner (GP) telehealth services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVE This study sought to assess use patterns of GP telehealth services in response to changing circumstances (before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and with or without a lockdown) in regional Victoria, Australia. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of monthly Medicare claims data from July 2019 to June 2021 from 140 regional GP practices in Western Victoria. The longitudinal patterns of proportion of GP telehealth consultations stratified by type of consultation (ie, videoconference vs telephone) and by geographical, consumer, and consultation characteristics were analyzed. RESULTS Telehealth comprised 25.8% (522,932/2,025,615) of GP consultations over the 2-year period. After the introduction of the Australian telehealth expansion policy in March 2020, there was a rapid uptake in GP telehealth services (including telephone and video services), from 0% before COVID-19 to 15% (11,854/80,922) of all consultations in March 2020, peaking at 55% (50,828/92,139) in August 2020. Thereafter, the use of telehealth declined steadily to 31% (23,941/77,344) in January 2021 and tapered off to 28% (29,263/103,798) in June 2021. Telephone services and shorter consultations were the most dominant form, and those aged 15-64 years had higher telehealth use rates than younger or older age groups. The proportion of video consultations was higher during periods with government-imposed lockdowns and higher in the most socioeconomically advantaged areas compared to less socioeconomically advantaged areas. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the continuation of telehealth use in rural and regional Australia post pandemic. Future policy must identify mechanisms to reduce existing equity gaps in video consultations and consider patient- and system-level implications of the dominant use of short telephone consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Liliana Orellana
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Martin Hensher
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Lan Gao
- Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Andrew Sanigorski
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Kevin Mc Namara
- Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.,Deakin Rural Health, School of Medicine, Warrnambool, Australia
| | | | - John Szakiel
- Western Victoria Primary Health Network, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jamie Swann
- Western Victoria Primary Health Network, Geelong, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Manias
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Anna Peeters
- Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
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Kumar SP, Anandan K, Balathay D, Vishnu Kumar S, Bhattacharjee B, Ravichandran S. A survey on connected healthcare beyond COVID in India: clinical perspectives. J Med Eng Technol 2023; 47:85-93. [PMID: 35856890 DOI: 10.1080/03091902.2022.2098397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has seen the advent of novel medical devices and practices. Demand for quality healthcare services rose exponentially which eventually led to accessibility becoming a major issue of concern. In addition to this, in-person consultations and various other conventional treatment methods were proven to be problematic. Limitations of traditional health care systems such as in-person consultations were highlighted, and conventional treatment methods have proven to be problematic. As an alternative approach, telehealth services are now gaining recognition due to their high efficiency, ease of use, and state-of-the-art technology. In this article, trends of telemedicine and its evolving popularity across the medical community due to the pandemic and beyond are studied and highlighted. An online survey form was circulated to 42 medical practitioners and interns to analyse the growing interest in telemedicine. The questionnaire covered the physicians' perspectives, preferences, experiences, and other important aspects of home-based teleconsultation. Based on the responses collected from doctors and medical interns, 14.2% disapproved, whereas 38.1% favoured and 47.6% showed a neutral response to the teleconsultation. More than 50% of the respondents claim the process to be time-consuming and 42% of them perceived it to be the other way round. 4.8% of the doctors preferred it to be only through computers whereas 45.2% per cent preferred consultation through smartphones and 50% of them preferred it be both ways. More than half (59.5%) of the doctors preferred the pandemic scenario and the remaining for its continued usage post-pandemic. Although India has the world's second-largest online market, a major population in India is digitally illiterate according to the Digital Foundation of India. Thus, it is important to devise telehealth technology that is simplest to use to reach also the economically backward patient communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pravin Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Healthcare Technologies, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Kalavakkam, India
| | - Kavitha Anandan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Healthcare Technologies, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Kalavakkam, India
| | - Divya Balathay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Healthcare Technologies, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Kalavakkam, India
| | - Sivagami Vishnu Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Healthcare Technologies, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Kalavakkam, India
| | - Basundhara Bhattacharjee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Healthcare Technologies, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Kalavakkam, India
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Kukafka R, Gupta A, Gilbert C, Huggins CE, Browning C, Chapman W, Haines T, Peeters A. Virtual Care Initiatives for Older Adults in Australia: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e38081. [PMID: 36652291 PMCID: PMC9892987 DOI: 10.2196/38081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a rapid shift toward the adoption of virtual health care services in Australia. It is unknown how widely virtual care has been implemented or evaluated for the care of older adults in Australia. OBJECTIVE We aimed to review the literature evaluating virtual care initiatives for older adults across a wide range of health conditions and modalities and identify key challenges and opportunities for wider adoption at both patient and system levels in Australia. METHODS A scoping review of the literature was conducted. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, AgeLine, and gray literature (January 1, 2011, to March 8, 2021) to identify virtual care initiatives for older Australians (aged ≥65 years). The results were reported according to the World Health Organization's digital health evaluation framework. RESULTS Among the 6296 documents in the search results, we identified 94 that reported 80 unique virtual care initiatives. Most (69/80, 89%) were at the pilot stage and targeted community-dwelling older adults (64/79, 81%) with chronic diseases (52/80, 65%). The modes of delivery included videoconference, telephone, apps, device or monitoring systems, and web-based technologies. Most initiatives showed either similar or better health and behavioral outcomes compared with in-person care. The key barriers for wider adoption were physical, cognitive, or sensory impairment in older adults and staffing issues, legislative issues, and a lack of motivation among providers. CONCLUSIONS Virtual care is a viable model of care to address a wide range of health conditions among older adults in Australia. More embedded and integrative evaluations are needed to ensure that virtually enabled care can be used more widely by older Australians and health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adyya Gupta
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Cecily Gilbert
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Catherine E Huggins
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Colette Browning
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Federation University, Ballarat, Australia.,Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Ballarat, Australia
| | - Wendy Chapman
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Terry Haines
- National Centre for Healthy Ageing, Monash University, Frankston, Australia.,School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Frankston, Australia
| | - Anna Peeters
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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Al-Alawy K, Moonesar IA. Perspective: Telehealth - beyond legislation and regulation. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121221143223. [PMID: 36643207 PMCID: PMC9834783 DOI: 10.1177/20503121221143223] [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: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization describes health innovation as developing new or improved systems, policies, products, technologies, services or delivery approaches that improve health and well-being, specifically of vulnerable people. The study's objectives were to (a) explore the legislative and regulatory journey of telehealth across the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and non-Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries and (b) provide recommendations to strengthen health system performance. We reviewed information sources for Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and non-Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries opportunistically, including government and medical board publications, media coverage and peer-reviewed papers, to provide a perspective on the legislative and regulatory telehealth journey. Our review of countries suggests that legislation and regulation remain essential for governance, accountability and assuring that healthcare professionals and technologies are safe and secure. However, there was no uniform approach to telehealth legislation and regulation, and the precautionary approach was observed in some countries. Different strategies appear to have been adopted for telehealth implementation. There is a need to go beyond legislation and regulation to strengthen health system performance and assure the future success of telehealth services. Health system decision makers should work with health system stakeholders to strategise and plan for telehealth services as it will have implications on the future delivery of healthcare services and the health system. Further research is needed to explore how policy frameworks may support innovations in healthcare, such as telehealth.
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Parotto E, Lamberti-Castronuovo A, Censi V, Valente M, Atzori A, Ragazzoni L. Exploring Italian healthcare facilities response to COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned from the Italian Response to COVID-19 initiative. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1016649. [PMID: 36699915 PMCID: PMC9870543 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1016649] [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: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic exerted an extraordinary pressure on the Italian healthcare system (Sistema Sanitario Nazionale, SSN), determining an unprecedented health crisis. In this context, a multidisciplinary non-governmental initiative called Italian Response to COVID-19 (IRC-19) was implemented from June 2020 to August 2021 to support the Italian health system through multiple activities aimed to mitigate the effects of the pandemic. The objective of this study was to shed light on the role of NGOs in supporting the SSN during the first pandemic wave by specifically exploring: (1) the main challenges experienced by Italian hospitals and out-of-hospital care facilities and (2) the nature and extent of the IRC-19 interventions specifically implemented to support healthcare facilities, to find out if and how such interventions met healthcare facilities' perceived needs at the beginning of the pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional study using an interviewer administered 32-item questionnaire among 14 Italian healthcare facilities involved in the IRC-19 initiative. Health facilities' main challenges concerned three main areas: healthcare workers, patients, and facilities' structural changes. The IRC-19 initiative contributed to support both hospital and out-of-hospital healthcare facilities by implementing interventions for staff and patients' safety and flow management and interventions focused on the humanization of care. The support from the third sector emerged as an added value that strengthened the Italian response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is in line with the Health-Emergency and Disaster Risk Management (H-EDRM) precepts, that call for a multisectoral and multidisciplinary collaboration for an effective disaster management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Parotto
- Dipartimento di Chirurgia DIDAS, Unità Operativa Complessa (UOC) Istituto Anestesia e Rianimazione, Azienda Ospedale Università, Padova, Italy,*Correspondence: Emanuela Parotto ✉
| | - Alessandro Lamberti-Castronuovo
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy,Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Veronica Censi
- Collegio Universitario Aspiranti Medici Missionari (CUAMM)-Doctors With Africa, Padova, Italy
| | - Martina Valente
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy,Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Andrea Atzori
- Collegio Universitario Aspiranti Medici Missionari (CUAMM)-Doctors With Africa, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Ragazzoni
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy,Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Vercelli, Italy
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48
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Turkmani S, Smith RM, Tan A, Kamkong CB, Anderson R, Sakulku S, Jat TR, Biswas A, Homer CSE. An evaluation of the introduction of telehealth for remote antenatal and postnatal contacts in Bangladesh and Lao People's Democratic Republic during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0000786. [PMID: 37163506 PMCID: PMC10171645 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
From 2020, COVID-19 spread rapidly around the globe and continues to have a major impact on health system functioning, with a disproportionate impact on low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Reduced service utilisation and coverage of essential childbirth interventions is likely impacting maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality. Telehealth has been identified as an important tool in the continued provision of essential healthcare services. The aim of this study was to explore the experience and impact of implementing telehealth services for the provision of remote antenatal (ANC) and postnatal (PNC) contacts in regions of Bangladesh and Lao People's Democratic Republic through 100 semi-structured interviews with health service leaders and providers, and childbearing women who organised, provided, or were the recipients of ANC and PNC telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic response. The findings showed that a sudden pivot from face-to-face to telehealth services posed both health system and provision of care challenges. Health systems lacked funding to support telehealth and the infrastructure needed for service changes; however, some were able to work with key maternal child health departments within Ministries of Health to find the resources to implement the services. Health providers found telehealth beneficial during the pandemic response but identified a lack of training, guidance, and support as a barrier to changing practice. Childbearing women reported being fearful of accessing care at health services due to COVID-19, and whilst they appreciated the telehealth contacts, many continued to prefer face-to-face delivery of ANC and PNC care. Telehealth, however, was a good alternative in a time when face-to-face care was not possible. Considerations for post-pandemic broader implementation or scale-up of telehealth for routine antenatal and postnatal maternity care provision include the need for further research on issues such as accessibility, acceptability, quality of care, and sustainability of service provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabera Turkmani
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- University of Technology Sydney, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Annie Tan
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Tej Ram Jat
- UNFPA Lao PDR Country Office, Vientiane, Laos
| | | | - Caroline S E Homer
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- University of Technology Sydney, Melbourne, Australia
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49
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Bhaskar S, Jovanovic S, Katyal A, Namboodiri NK, Chatzis D, Banach M. Is COVID-19 another case of the obesity paradox? Results from an international ecological study on behalf of the REPROGRAM Consortium Obesity study group. Arch Med Sci 2023; 19:25-34. [PMID: 36817671 PMCID: PMC9897093 DOI: 10.5114/aoms/136447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obesity has emerged as one of the major risk factors of severe morbidity and cause-specific mortality among severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected individuals. Patients with obesity also have overlapping cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, which make them increasingly vulnerable. This novel ecological study examines the impact of obesity and/or body mass index (BMI) on rates of population-adjusted cases and deaths due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). MATERIAL AND METHODS Publicly available datasets were used to obtain relevant data on COVID-19, obesity and ecological variables. Group-wise comparisons and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was plotted to compute the area under the curve. RESULTS We found that male BMI is an independent predictor of cause-specific (COVID-19) mortality, and not of the caseload per million population. Countries with obesity rates of 20-30% had a significantly higher (approximately double) number of deaths per million population to both those in < 20% and > 30% slabs. We postulate that there may be a U-shaped paradoxical relationship between obesity and COVID-19 with the cause-specific mortality burden more pronounced in the countries with 20-30% obesity rates. These findings are novel along with the methodological approach of doing ecological analyses on country-wide data from publicly available sources. CONCLUSIONS We anticipate, in light of our findings, that appropriate targeted public health approaches or campaigns could be developed to minimize the risk and cause-specific morbidity burden due to COVID-19 in countries with nationwide obesity rates of 20-30%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonu Bhaskar
- Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM) Global Consortium, Obesity REPROGRAM Study Group, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neurology & Neurophysiology, Liverpool Hospital & South West Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD), Liverpool, Australia
- NSW Brain Clot Bank, NSW Health Pathology and Neurovascular Imaging Laboratory, Clinical Sciences Stream, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sanja Jovanovic
- Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM) Global Consortium, Obesity REPROGRAM Study Group, Sydney, Australia
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Office of Research Services, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anubhav Katyal
- Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM) Global Consortium, Obesity REPROGRAM Study Group, Sydney, Australia
- Neurovascular Imaging Laboratory, Clinical Sciences Stream, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- University of New South Wales (UNSW), South Western Sydney Clinical School, Sydney, Australia
| | - Narayanan K. Namboodiri
- Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM) Global Consortium, Obesity REPROGRAM Study Group, Sydney, Australia
- Sree Chitra Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Department of Cardiology, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Dimitrios Chatzis
- Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM) Global Consortium, Obesity REPROGRAM Study Group, Sydney, Australia
- Medical School, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Maciej Banach
- Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM) Global Consortium, Obesity REPROGRAM Study Group, Sydney, Australia
- Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), Lodz, Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland
- Department of Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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50
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Bressan T, Valdivia-Gago A, Silvera-Ccallo RM, Llanos-Cuentas A, Condor DF, Padilla-Huamantinco PG, Vilcarromero S, Miranda JJ, Zavaleta-Cortijo C. Challenges of design, implementation, acceptability, and potential for, biomedical technologies in the Peruvian Amazon. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:183. [PMID: 36536404 PMCID: PMC9762865 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-022-01773-7] [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: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biomedical technologies have the potential to be advantageous in remote communities. However, information about barriers faced by users of technology in general and in remote Indigenous communities is scarce. The purpose of this study was to characterize the leading challenges faced by researchers who have used biomedical technologies in the Peruvian Amazon. METHODS This exploratory, qualitative study with a phenomenological approach depicts the lived experience of participants who were researchers with experience working with biomedical technologies in the Peruvian Amazon in the past five years. Analysis was based on three core themes: design, implementation, and acceptability. Sub-themes included environment, community, and culture. Of the 24 potential participants identified and contacted, 14 agreed to participate, and 13 met inclusion criteria and completed semi-structured interviews. Results were sent to each participant with the opportunity to provide feedback and partake in a 30-minute validation meeting. Five participants consented to a follow-up meeting to validate the results and provide further understanding. RESULTS Participants recognized significant challenges, including technologies designed out-of-context, difficulty transporting the technologies through the Amazon, the impact of the physical environment (e.g., humidity, flooding), and limited existing infrastructure, such as electricity and appropriately trained health personnel. Participants also identified cultural factors, including the need to address past experiences with technology and health interventions, understand and appropriately communicate community benefits, and understand the effect of demographics (e.g., age, education) on the acceptance and uptake of technology. Complementary challenges, such as corruption in authority and waste disposal, and recommendations for technological and health interventions such as co-design were also identified. CONCLUSIONS This study proposes that technological and health interventions without efforts to respect local cultures and health priorities, or understand and anticipate contextual challenges, will not meet its goal of improving access to healthcare in remote Amazon communities. Furthermore, the implications of corruption on health services, and improper waste disposal on the environment may lead to more detrimental health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiana Bressan
- grid.34429.380000 0004 1936 8198School of Engineering, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Andrea Valdivia-Gago
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Escuela de Nutrición, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102
| | - Rosa M. Silvera-Ccallo
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Unidad de Ciudadania Intercultural y Salud Indigena, Facultad de Salud Publica y Administracion, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102
| | - Alejandro Llanos-Cuentas
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Unidad de Ciudadania Intercultural y Salud Indigena, Facultad de Salud Publica y Administracion, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102
| | - Daniel F. Condor
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488School of Nursing, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Biomedical Informatics in Global Health Unit, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488 CuidART-e Research Group, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102
| | - Pierre G. Padilla-Huamantinco
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,Health Innovation Lab, Institute of Tropical Medicine Alexander von Humboldt, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Schools of Engineering, Medicine, and Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile Av Vicuña Mackenna 4860,
| | - Stalin Vilcarromero
- grid.420173.30000 0000 9677 5193Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins (HNERM), EsSalud, Lima, Peru Av. Edgardo Rebagliati 490, 15072
| | - J. Jaime Miranda
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488CRONICAS Centre of Excellence in Chronic Diseases, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488 School of Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carol Zavaleta-Cortijo
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Unidad de Ciudadania Intercultural y Salud Indigena, Facultad de Salud Publica y Administracion, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102 ,grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Unidad de Ciudadanía Intercultural y Salud Indígena (UCISI), Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru Av. Honorio Delgado 430, 15102
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