An evaluation of the use of Telehealth within palliative care settings across Scotland

Johnston, B. , Kidd, L. , Wengstrom, Y. and Kearney, N. (2012) An evaluation of the use of Telehealth within palliative care settings across Scotland. Palliative Medicine, 26(2), pp. 152-161. (doi: 10.1177/0269216311398698) (PMID:21378067)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

There is a lack of evidence-based research in the use of Telehealth within palliative care in the UK, particularly in Scotland. The aim of this project was to evaluate the current use of Telehealth applications within palliative care across Scotland, and how these and future applications are perceived by patients, carers and professionals. This paper reports on the qualitative findings from focus groups with patients and carers in three geographical areas in Scotland, and individual interviews with key stakeholders from across Scotland, who currently work within areas of high and low Telehealth activity. The key findings indicated that Telehealth initiatives are welcomed by patients and carers but that these should be an adjunct to clinical care rather than an alternative. The stakeholder interviews revealed several notable differences between those working within areas of high and low Telehealth activity. Principally, areas of high Telehealth activity appear to be driven by national and local policy and seem to benefit from a greater level of investment in Telehealth equipment and facilities than in the more central, and hence accessible, parts of Scotland.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:This work was supported by the Scottish Centre for Telehealth.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Kidd, Dr Lisa and Johnston, Professor Bridget
Authors: Johnston, B., Kidd, L., Wengstrom, Y., and Kearney, N.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care
Journal Name:Palliative Medicine
Publisher:SAGE Publications
ISSN:0269-2163
ISSN (Online):1477-030X
Published Online:04 March 2011

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record