Telemedicine Service Delivery Model: Usage Areas, Advantages, Challenges and Recommendations – A Modified Delphi Study

Abstract

Telemedicine Service Delivery Model: Usage Areas, Advantages, Challenges and Recommendations – A Modified Delphi Study

Abstract

Background: Telemedicine, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), involves the provision of healthcare services through information and communication technologies, especially when distance is a critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine globally, impacting the diagnosis, treatment, and management of chronic diseases. The experiences, thoughts, and concerns of healthcare service providers play a crucial role in shaping the future of telemedicine service delivery. This study compiles the opinions from a heterogeneous group of practitioners and users regarding telemedicine services in Türkiye, focusing on usage areas, conveniences, difficulties, and recommendations. Materials and Methods: A methodological study was conducted using the Delphi technique on the benefits, application areas and obstacles of telemedicine. The E-Delphi method was used, which involved consultation with a large number of experts through electronic communication. Panelists included representatives from a variety of industries and consensus was sought in three rounds. Results: In the first round, 24 participants provided 143 items focusing on telemedicine's benefits and limitations. During the second round, 21 participants rated these items, achieving consensus on 54% of them. In the third round, 20 participants reached consensus on 52 out of 77 items, primarily on telemedicine's benefits and promotion strategies, but not on ethical issues and specialty-specific applications. Discussion: For telemedicine to thrive in Türkiye, it is necessary to define legal and ethical boundaries and establish guidelines for telemedicine applications. The lack of inclusion of telemedicine services in healthcare service reimbursements has emerged as a significant barrier to the adoption of telemedicine among service providers. While telemedicine applications are poised to become an essential tool in healthcare service delivery, evolving alongside technology and a changing world, the concerns of practitioners present substantial barriers to progress.

Keywords

• Telemedicine
• delphi study
• technology
• telehealth

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