Abstract
Introduction
Access to specialised multidisciplinary healthcare services is difficult for many patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. A possible solution could be delivery of care via telehealth. This study aims to identify current barriers in accessing healthcare services, and to determine if telehealth is an acceptable mode of healthcare delivery, from the perspective of patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Methods
Surveys were distributed to current patients receiving care within the Neurosurgical and Orthopaedic Physiotherapy Screening Clinic and Multidisciplinary Service (N/OPSC & MDS) at six facilities throughout Queensland, Australia. The 48-item survey evaluated five key areas including demographics; current barriers to attendance; satisfaction with current management provided by the N/OPSC & MDS; technology access and literacy; and attitudes and preference towards telehealth.
Results
In total, 85 patients (71%) completed the survey. The majority of patients were satisfied overall with the N/OPSC & MDS, but almost one-quarter of the patients reported ceasing treatment due to difficulty accessing services. Over half of the respondents were willing to use telehealth if it reduced the costs (53%) and time (57%) associated with attending appointments. Patients in paid employment were more likely (65%) to use telehealth if it reduced work absenteeism. Overall, 78% of patients were identified as having appropriate technology access to enable home telehealth. Specifically, 43% of patients would prefer home telehealth over having to travel to attend their appointments.
Discussion
The majority of N/OPSC & MDS patients are willing to engage in telehealth for the management of their chronic musculoskeletal condition. These findings justify consideration of telehealth as an additional method of service delivery within the existing N/OPSC & MD service.
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