The Readiness of Using Telemedicine in Contracted Unit for Primary Care Team in Suratthani Urban Area
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Abstract
Background: Telemedicine has played a crucial role in healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, integrating telemedicine into the primary healthcare system presents various challenges. This study aimed to assess the readiness and influencing factors for telemedicine adoption in primary care units in the Surat Thani urban area.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to November 2021, collecting data from 178 healthcare providers in primary care units. A validated questionnaire was used, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square to determine the relationship between influencing factors and telemedicine readiness.
Results: This study found that 53.3% of primary care units in Surat Thani urban area were ready to implement telemedicine services. Key facilitating factors included well-established internet infrastructure, organizational culture supporting technology adoption, and patient demand. Readiness was significantly associated with age (p = 0.028) and job position (p < 0.05), indicating that younger healthcare providers and certain roles were more adaptable to telemedicine.
Conclusion: Although telemedicine is increasingly adopted in primary healthcare, further improvements are needed in healthcare provider training, technological support, and clear operational guidelines. This study provides fundamental insights for policymakers to develop a more effective and sustainable telemedicine framework.
Keywords: telemedicine, readiness, healthcare providers, Primary Care Units, Urban Area, Surat Thani
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