Keywords
1. Telemedicine in Saudi Arabia
2. Telehealth Technology Riyadh
3. Physician Attitudes Telemedicine
4. E-Health Strategy Saudi
5. Barriers to Telemedicine Adoption
The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly with the integration of digital technology, shaping the way healthcare professionals interact with patients and manage care. In Saudi Arabia, the adoption of telemedicine has been identified as a pivotal step towards enhancing healthcare delivery. A profound study conducted in Riyadh region sheds light on the physician’s knowledge, perception of, and willingness to embrace telemedicine. The research, “Assessment of physician’s knowledge, perception and willingness of telemedicine in Riyadh region, Saudi Arabia,” published in the Journal of Infection and Public Health, delves into these key aspects among physicians in the Riyadh region.
Telemedicine: A Digital Revolution in Healthcare
Telemedicine leverages computer applications and telecommunication technologies to provide clinical services remotely, a critical feature especially in regions with geographical barriers or limited healthcare resources. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has embarked on an e-Health strategy that incorporates telemedicine with the aim of improving patient and healthcare provider accessibility and quality of care.
Study Overview
A cross-sectional study was conducted within four reputable hospitals in Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Medical City, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, King Saud Medical City, and King Saud University Medical City. The survey questionnaire was self-administered and sourced from previous literature, assessing aspects like access to a computer, computer literacy, telemedicine knowledge, perception, and willingness.
Findings: Physicians’ Knowledge and Perception
Involving 391 physicians, the study revealed a dichotomy between the accessibility to technology and the knowledge of telemedicine. Even as 89.2% of participants possessed two or more smart devices, only an average of 46.1% demonstrated substantial knowledge about telemedicine technology. This points toward an urgent need for enhanced educational and training initiatives for medical professionals regarding this dynamic healthcare domain.
A striking 77% of the professionals agreed on the necessity for continuous training in telemedicine usage. Moreover, an overwhelming 90% had positive perceptions of telemedicine as a valuable method for delivering medical services to patients.
Digital Literacy and Technology Utilization Among Physicians
Despite the prevalence of smart devices, personal computer or laptop usage at home was reported by only half of the respondents. This suggests a degree of disconnectedness in translating personal technology use into professional capacities.
Willingness to Adopt Telemedicine
Interestingly, more than 90% of specialty professionals acknowledged the time and cost-saving potential of telemedicine, also highlighting the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in healthcare. However, the analysis divulged a deficiency in institutional discussions, such as conferences or meetings, centered on telemedicine technology, with 70% of physicians citing very few such opportunities at their workplace.
Identified Barriers and Concerns
The study accentuated several hurdles in the route to telemedicine adoption. Patient privacy emerged as a preeminent concern, along with the significant costs associated with telemedicine equipment. Additionally, respondents indicated a deficiency in adequate training and a lack of collaboration between IT experts and clinicians as impediments.
Communication Beyond Conventional Means
Despite formal telemedicine practices not being widespread, many physicians were already engaging in email or social media communications with patients—a step towards the broader telemedicine landscape. This willingness to use digital means for communication signals an overall positive inclination towards the integration of telemedicine, provided the concerns and barriers are addressed.
Recommendations for Progress
To bridge the gap between the current state and the optimal use of telemedicine in Riyadh, several recommendations have been made. These include:
1. Education and Training Enhancement: Educational programs that target the knowledge gaps among physicians, focusing on the benefits and practical aspects of telemedicine.
2. Policy Framework and Privacy Regulations: Establishing robust policies that secure patient privacy and trust in the telemedicine infrastructure.
3. Investment in Infrastructure: Allocating resources to equip healthcare facilities with the necessary telemedicine technologies.
4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Promoting collaboration between healthcare providers and IT professionals to ensure seamless translation of telemedicine into practice.
Closing Thoughts
The study offers an insightful examination into the perceptions and readiness of physicians in Riyadh to embrace a technologically enriched future in healthcare delivery. As Saudi Arabia continues to advance its e-Health strategy, addressing the highlighted barriers and empowering physicians through education, infrastructural support, and policy development will be pivotal in realizing the full potential of telemedicine.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2019.04.006
References
1. Albarrak, A. I., Mohammed, R., Almarshoud, N., Almujalli, L., Aljaeed, R., Altuwaijiri, S., & Albohairy, T. (2021). Assessment of physician’s knowledge, perception and willingness of telemedicine in Riyadh region, Saudi Arabia. Journal of Infection and Public Health, 14(1), 97–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jiph.2019.04.006
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