1.Experiences and challenges in telemedicine of physicians from the National Capital Region during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Ma. Shaina Isabel S. Hilomen ; Mikaela Marie A. Haveria ; Carlo Lorenzo B. Hernandez ; Denise D. Hernandez ; Gabrielle Dominique I. Herradura ; James F. Huan ; Greg Mikhail B. Hubo ; Alan June O. Icaonapo ; Jonathan C. Idolor ; Francesca Nadine Wing-Chun O. Ip ; Franciosa Luningning Gavino-Collins ; Ma. Peñ ; afrancia L. Adversario ; Teresa Diana B. Bongala
Health Sciences Journal 2023;12(2):67-77
Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift to delivering health services through telemedicine.
This study recognized the perceptions, experiences, and challenges of physicians who practice synchronous teleconsultation in the Philippines.
Methods:
A qualitative descriptive research design using purposive sampling, eight physicians from NCR
were interviewed. Data collected were subjected to thematic analysis for common themes and integrated
into an analytic narrative.
Results:
Eight physicians were included as participants. Different measures taken to remedy the gap
included upskilling of physicians, adjustment of clerical work, ensuring data privacy, and creating a
conducive workplace. Remote consultations posed limitations on physical examination and emphasized
the reliance on diagnostics. Digital platforms used depended on the physician’s preference, type of
practice, and patient’s accessibility. This led to an increased dependency on good internet and network
service connections to ensure smooth teleconsultations. A lack of respect for the physician’s personal
boundaries and work-life balance was cited as a major challenge.
Conclusion
Telemedicine proved to be an option to provide healthcare despite its limitations, but the
shift to its practice exposed many challenges as it is not a replacement for physical consultations.
COVID-19
;
Telemedicine
Result Analysis
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