Factors Affecting Telemedicine Use in Rural Patients
Author Information
Author(s): García Eliseo, Vincent Benjamin C., Thakur Shivani, Thakur Ashish, Zabiba Fatima, Agarwal Sandhini, Cervantes Jasmin Dominguez, Zabiba Ahmed
Primary Institution: Valley Vein Health Center
Hypothesis
What variables influence telemedicine utilization among rural patients?
Conclusion
Rural patients prefer flexible telemedicine encounters and providers who build trust and rapport.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients felt telemedicine encounters were as good as in-person visits.
- Patients expressed confidence in proceeding with future in-person treatments after telemedicine.
- Most patients felt their personal information was safe during telemedicine encounters.
Takeaway
This study found that rural patients like using telemedicine because it allows them to have appointments that fit their schedules and helps them feel comfortable with their doctors.
Methodology
A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was completed by 153 patients at a rural clinic using convenience sampling.
Potential Biases
Surveys were conducted close to patients' appointments, which may influence responses.
Limitations
Participant response bias and lack of anonymity in surveys.
Participant Demographics
82.4% female, 69.3% Hispanic/Latino, various age groups from 18 to 81+.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.039
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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