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eReferrals: Why are we still faxing?
Christopher A Hughes1, Penny Allen2, Michael Bentley3
1FRACGP, FARGP, MBBS, BMedSc, General Practitioner, Saunders Street Clinic, Wynyard, Tas; Clinical Lecturer, University of Tasmania; Medical Educator, General Practice Training Tasmania. @.
Australian Journal of General Practice
|February 13, 2018
Summary
Electronic referrals (eReferrals) face adoption barriers, primarily peer non-use and software issues. Addressing these, alongside security concerns and workplace culture, is key to realizing eReferral benefits in healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Healthcare Management
- Digital Health
Background:
- Electronic referrals (eReferrals) represent a significant technological advancement in healthcare delivery.
- Understanding user perspectives is crucial for successful eReferral implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore healthcare professionals' attitudes and behaviors regarding eReferral adoption.
- To identify barriers and enablers influencing the use of eReferrals and electronic communication.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among doctors and allied health professionals in north-west Tasmania.
- Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of survey responses.
Main Results:
- Fax and post remain dominant referral methods for most respondents (80%).
- A majority (72%) desire increased electronic communication.
- Key barriers include peer behavior, software usability, security concerns, and workplace culture.
Conclusions:
- Peer adoption is the primary obstacle to eReferral implementation.
- Enhanced software usability and interoperability are necessary.
- Addressing security perceptions and leveraging workplace culture can drive eReferral adoption.
