Fluctuations in telemedicine case volume: correlation with personnel turnover rates

Statistical process control (SPC) techniques were used to analyze 5 years worth of telemedicine case volume data from seven remote sites in order to characterize how much fluctuation occurred over time for each site and whether the fluctuation remained within prescribed limits. The points at which the fluctuations were considered beyond the prescribed limits were correlated with the turnover rate in key personnel (e.g., the Medical Director). Though no causal relationship can be implied, sites with higher turnover rates tended to fluctuate more. The analyses suggest that SPC may be a useful tool for analyzing trends in telemedicine consultation volume fluctuations over time and, therefore, may be useful for program management and allocation of personnel resources. It can also be used in the long run to determine when and why fluctuations occur and whether the causes of fluctuations need to be addressed.