Development, implementation and evaluation of telecounseling framework in patients with COVID 19 in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The spread of the corona virus and the efforts to reduce its spread have changed the way health services work around the world, and these changes will probably continue long after the crisis subsides. Remote consultation can help patients with Covid-19 and improve access to specialized care. Objective: This study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a framework for teleconsultation of COVID-19 patients at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methodology: This study is a multi-method research. To check the feasibility, a wide review and a questionnaire were used. The framework was compiled after reviewing library studies, collecting experts' opinions and confirming the panel of experts. This framework was implemented in the hospitals of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences and its evaluation was done using questionnaires and field visits. Findings:In the text review phase, 32 articles were studied, and important factors were identified in four domains. The questionnaire results showed that the most significant impacts were related to "cost and time reduction" and "internet problems," respectively. The most important opportunities and threats were "reduction of transportation costs" and "conflicts of interest by insurance companies." In the qualitative study, the components were categorized into six main themes: cultural and legal requirements, program features, minimum required data, hardware and software requirements, information exchange and documentation, and involved users and experts. Regarding the implementation of the framework, 53 electronic counseling sessions were conducted among physicians within three months, and the records of 129 patients were reviewed. The evaluation results of the teleconsultation framework showed that the highest score was related to the "decision-making support" domain. Conclusion: Identifying internal and external factors for developing a teleconsultation program for physicians during the COVID-19 period is crucial. The implementation of a teleconsultation framework can overcome the limitations imposed and improve access to specialized and super-specialized services. Keywords: distance counseling, covid 19, feasibility study