Web-Based Specialist Support for Spinal Cord Injury Person’s Care: Lessons Learned

International Journal of Telemedicine and Applications, 2012 · DOI: 10.1155/2012/861860 · Published: July 8, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Telehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

The study aimed to create a web portal to connect spinal cord injury (SCI) patients with specialists and general practitioners (GPs). The goal was to improve follow-up care after patients leave the hospital. After an initial test with 13 patients, the portal was integrated into the regional healthcare network. It used smartcards for security, but the number of patients using the portal remained low. Patients found it easier to call their doctor than use the web portal, even though they appreciated the project. This suggests that people are not yet comfortable using online tools to communicate with doctors.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

13 SCI persons for feasibility study, then expanded to 50 trainees

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The web portal, despite positive feedback, was not the preferred method of communication for SCI persons needing to contact specialists; they preferred phone or email.
2
General practitioners showed little involvement in using the portal for communication regarding their SCI patients.
3
Usability of the web portal and the smartcard authentication system were identified as weak points, potentially hindering adoption.

Research Summary

This research evaluated a web portal designed to improve communication between SCI patients, specialists, and GPs. The portal aimed to provide ongoing support and address healthcare needs after hospital discharge. Despite integration into the regional healthcare network and training for users, the portal experienced low usage. Patients preferred traditional communication methods like phone calls. The study highlights the importance of user-friendliness and the need for a shift in patient and doctor behavior to embrace telemedicine solutions for SCI care.

Practical Implications

Improved portal design

Focus on user-friendliness and ease of access to encourage greater adoption by SCI patients.

GP engagement strategies

Develop strategies to actively involve general practitioners in using telemedicine platforms for better communication and care coordination.

Patient education

Educate patients on the benefits of telemedicine and address concerns regarding privacy and security to promote acceptance and usage.

Study Limitations

1
The user group was selected for pre-existing computer skills, potentially skewing results.
2
Low number of subjects in the initial feasibility study.
3
Lack of quantitative analysis of the questionnaire answers due to the low number of subjects.

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