Evaluation Framework for Telemedicine Using the Logical Framework Approach and a Fishbone Diagram.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare technology evaluation
• Digital health implementation science

Background:

• Telemedicine and telehealth adoption is rapidly increasing in healthcare.
• Existing evaluation frameworks for these technologies are inconsistent and limited.
• A standardized approach is needed to guide decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a comprehensive evaluation framework for telemedicine system implementation.
• To support stakeholders in making informed decisions regarding telehealth adoption.
• To enhance understanding and resolve controversies surrounding telemedicine evaluation.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized themes from various evaluation techniques for telemedicine.
• Organized foundational frameworks applicable across diverse telemedicine studies and cases.
• Utilized a fishbone diagram to structure evaluation factors including IT aspects, user satisfaction, cost, quality, and security.

Main Results:

• Developed a conceptual framework for evaluating telehealth implementation.
• The framework incorporates key dimensions for a structured evaluation approach.
• The proposed framework consists of six major dimensions with detailed sub-branches.

Conclusions:

• Stakeholders require evidence-based decisions on quality and safety for telemedicine and telehealth implementation.
• The comprehensive evaluation framework provides a basis for such evidence.
• Further research should validate and refine the framework across diverse contexts and participant groups.