Previously submitted to: Journal of Medical Internet Research (no longer under consideration since Jul 02, 2026)
Date Submitted: May 10, 2026
Open Peer Review Period: May 13, 2026 - Jul 8, 2026
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Healthcare Professional Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to Teledermatology Implementation in Hawassa, Ethiopia: Qualitative Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
The severe shortage of dermatologists in Ethiopia creates significant barriers to specialized skincare, particularly for rural populations. Teledermatology (TD) offers a promising solution to bridge this gap.
Objective:
This study aimed to explore the pre-implementation perceptions of healthcare professionals in Hawassa city, Ethiopia, to identify the key facilitators and critical barriers influencing the potential adoption of a TD service.
Methods:
A qualitative study was conducted via in-depth and key informant interviews with 22 participants, including physicians, health officers, facility administrators, and allied health professionals from nine public health centers in Hawassa city. A convenience sampling approach was used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed, and analyzed via a rigorous thematic analysis approach to identify recurring themes related to facilitators, barriers, and implementation strategies.
Results:
Healthcare professionals demonstrated positive attitudes and recognized the potential of TD to improve patient access and enhance their clinical knowledge. Key facilitators included the widespread availability of personal smartphones and high intrinsic motivation among staff. However, significant barriers were also identified, with subthemes including technological infrastructure gaps, systemic and policy vacuums, patient-related concerns about privacy and trust, and provider-related issues such as the need for targeted training.
Conclusions:
Healthcare professionals expressed willingness to adopt TD, identifying key facilitators (e.g., smartphone access, personal motivation) and notable barriers (e.g., infrastructure challenges, unclear policies, privacy concerns). Successful implementation will require targeted investments, clear guidelines, staff training, and community buy-in.
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