Telepathology Development and Stakeholder Perspectives in China: Cross-Sectional Survey.

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Medical Informatics
• Pathology

Background:

• Telepathology is crucial for enhancing diagnostic access in underserved regions, particularly in China.
• A comprehensive national assessment of telepathology implementation and stakeholder views in China was previously lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze telepathology infrastructure, application, and user experience in China (2018-2023).
• To identify key factors influencing telepathology adoption and satisfaction levels.

Main Methods:

• Repeated cross-sectional surveys of hospitals (2018-2023) and telepathology users (2023).
• Analysis of data from hospitals (n=464-188), pathologists (n=262), and patients (n=141).
• Regression analysis to determine factors affecting professional satisfaction and technology adoption willingness.

Main Results:

• Hospital telepathology software adoption increased by 7.60% annually; median cases per hospital rose from 51 to 200.
• Pathologist satisfaction reached 95.8%, with 95% willing to continue; system usability and service processes correlated with satisfaction.
• Patient satisfaction was 100%, with 99.3% willing to recommend telepathology, and 92.2% receiving results within 24 hours.

Conclusions:

• Telepathology in China demonstrated significant growth and high user satisfaction from 2018-2023.
• Sustained development necessitates improved system usability, supportive policies (funding, insurance), and promotion of benefits.
• An integrated strategy is vital for establishing telepathology as a sustainable solution for equitable national diagnostic access.