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A telemedicine service for HIV/AIDS physicians working in developing countries
Maria Zolfo1, Moses H Bateganya, Ifedayo M Adetifa
1Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium. mzolfo@itg.be
Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare
|November 17, 2010
Summary
An internet-based telemedicine service supported healthcare workers managing difficult HIV/AIDS cases globally. The service provided valuable advice, influencing subsequent patient management, despite a declining usage trend.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Public Health
- Medical Informatics
Background:
- The Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) established an internet-based decision support service in 2003.
- The service aimed to aid healthcare workers in managing complex Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) cases.
- It specifically targeted physicians in resource-limited settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility and impact of an internet-based telemedicine service for HIV/AIDS case management.
- To assess query volume, response times, and content of consultations.
- To understand user perceptions and influence on clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 1058 queries received between April 2003 and December 2009 from over 40 countries.
- Queries were managed via a web-based forum or email by a coordinator and specialist network.
- A user questionnaire with a 19% response rate assessed the service's value and impact.
Main Results:
- The service received 1058 queries, with nearly half (49%) on the discussion forum.
- Average first response time was 24 hours.
- Approximately 49% of queries related to antiretroviral medications.
- Telemedicine advice proved valuable and influenced subsequent management of similar cases.
- A declining trend in service usage was observed.
Conclusions:
- The telemedicine service was a valuable resource for managing difficult HIV/AIDS cases, particularly in resource-limited areas.
- It effectively facilitated specialist consultation and influenced clinical decision-making.
- Strategies to address the declining usage trend may be necessary to sustain its impact.
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