Model of Telemedicine Service for chronic disease in Phayakkhaphumphisai Hospital Mahasarakham Province

Abstract

Purposes : To develop a telemedicine service model for chronic disease patients at in Phayakkhaphumphisai Hospital Mahasarakham Province.

Study design : Action research.

Material and Methods : Specific targeted sample groups include: a multidisciplinary team at the hospital (17 members), support staff at health centers (40 individuals) and chronic disease patients at health centers (376 individuals). The research period will span from October 2023 to May 2024. Data collection methods will include interviews, group discussions, patient satisfaction surveys and team satisfaction assessments. Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, while paired t-tests and content analysis will be used for qualitative data.

Main findings : The telemedicine service model consists of 5 steps: 1) Establishment of digital health stations in health centers. 2) Formation of district-level working groups. 3) Communication systems using Line application, Zoom meeting program, Smart Card and HOSxP program. 4) Telemedicine services including a) patient identification, b) patient data entry in HOSxP, c) medical history collection, d) remote consultation, e) post-consultation nursing guidance, f) pharmacist medication advice, g) medication dispensation in health centers or postal delivery. 5) Service documentation post-implementation showed significantly increased patient satisfaction (statistically significant at p < .05) and highest staff satisfaction levels in health centers (Mean = 4.67, SD. = 0.58) and hospital multidisciplinary teams (Mean = 4.52, SD. = 0.59).

Conclusion and recommendations : Telemedicine services effectively meet the needs of patients seeking physician consultations remotely. This approach reduces congestion, waiting times, and overall healthcare costs.