[Telemedicine in pediatric oncology]

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Pediatric Oncology
• Telemedicine

Context:

• The Competence Net Pediatric Oncology of the German/Austrian Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Onkologie und Hämatologie (GPOH) surveyed 46 of the largest pediatric hematology/oncology units in Germany.
• The survey assessed current experiences, motivations, infrastructure, and perceived benefits and obstacles related to telemedicine implementation.
• This initiative is part of a broader telemedicine project aimed at enhancing patient care and research in pediatric oncology.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the current status and future potential of telemedicine in German pediatric oncology centers.
• To identify key facilitators and barriers to the successful implementation of telemedicine applications.
• To guide the GPOH Competence Net's telemedicine project, focusing on immediate needs.

Summary:

• All participants expressed a need for detailed implementation guidance and technical support for telemedicine.
• The majority anticipate practical benefits, including improved quality of care for children with cancer and potential cost reductions.
• Key obstacles identified include a lack of medical informatics expertise, data security concerns, and standardization issues, despite widespread computer and internet use.

Impact:

• Telemedicine is expected to become standard in pediatric oncology, with electronic expert consultation identified as the most pressing need.
• A significant majority of institutions (72%) believe telemedicine will reduce healthcare costs.
• Despite current infrastructural and informational gaps, 37 out of 46 institutions are willing to invest in telemedicine implementation.