Experiences and challenges in telemedicine of physicians from the National Capital Region during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

Ma. Peñafrancia  L. Adversario,; Franciosa  Gavino Collins,; Ma. Shaina Isabel  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,; Teresa Diana  B. Bongala,

Experiences and challenges in telemedicine of physicians from the National Capital Region during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

Discipline: Health

Abstract:

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.