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General practitioners' perceptions of store-and-forward teledermatology
K Collins1, P Nicolson, I Bowns
1School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, UK. k.collins@sheffield.ac.uk
Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare
|May 29, 2000
Summary
General practitioners (GPs) showed interest in store-and-forward tele-dermatology for improved patient access and efficiency. Key concerns included system reliability, ease of use, and potential workload increases before its implementation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Dermatology
- General Practice
Background:
- Tele-dermatology, specifically store-and-forward, is an emerging technology for remote patient care.
- Understanding general practitioners' (GPs) perspectives is crucial for successful implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess GPs' pre-implementation views on store-and-forward tele-dermatology.
- To identify potential benefits, concerns, and expectations regarding this technology.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire survey was administered to 26 general practitioners.
- Likert-type questions and free-text responses were used to gather data on knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes.
Main Results:
- Most GPs had limited prior knowledge of tele-dermatology.
- Perceived benefits included quicker specialist access, reduced referrals, enhanced patient convenience, and diagnostic support.
- Key concerns involved system reliability, ease of use, efficiency, and potential increased workload.
Conclusions:
- GPs anticipate tele-dermatology can improve care delivery and efficiency.
- Successful adoption hinges on a reliable, user-friendly system and addressing workload concerns.
- Clinical adequacy is paramount for the future success of tele-dermatology.