Sociotechnical Perspective on Implementing Clinical Video Telehealth for Veterans with Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders

This study explores how clinical video telehealth (CVT) is being used to improve healthcare access for veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D). It looks at the various social and technical factors that influence the successful implementation of CVT in clinical settings. The research involved interviews with 40 healthcare providers who use CVT to deliver services to veterans with SCI/D. The interviews focused on identifying challenges and facilitators related to implementing CVT. The study found that factors related to workflow, communication, technical infrastructure, and organizational support significantly impact the implementation of CVT. Effective teamwork and communication are critical for successful CVT encounters.

• 1
  Workflow and communication challenges, such as coordinating logistics and ensuring effective communication between CVT team members across facilities, were widely reported as implementation barriers.
• 2
  Technical infrastructure limitations, including the need for appropriate equipment, bandwidth, and physical space, also hindered CVT implementation.
• 3
  The presence of a CVT champion, who could advocate for CVT use, schedule appointments, and prepare equipment, was crucial for overcoming implementation challenges.