JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Particularly in rural regions, factors like lower physician density and long travel distances complicate adequate outpatient care. However, urban regions can also be affected by deficits in care, e.g. due to long waiting times. One model of care intending to improve the situation is the implementation of video consultations. The study protocol presents the methodology of the research project titled "Preference-based implementation of the video consultation in urban and rural regions" funded by the German Federal Joint Committee (Funding-no. 01VSF20011).

Objective:

The study aims to identify existing barriers to the use of video consultation and the preferences of the insured and physicians as well as psychotherapists in order to optimize its design and thus increase acceptance and use of video consultations in urban and rural regions.

Methods:

Built on a mixed-methods approach, this study first assesses the status quo of video consultation use through routine data analysis and carries out a systematic literature review on barriers and promoting factors for the use of video consultations. Based on this preliminary work, focus groups are conducted in order to prepare surveys with insured as well as physicians and psychotherapists in the second study phase. Central element of the survey is the implementation of Discrete Choice Experiments to elicit relevant preferences of (potential) user groups and service providers. The summarized findings are discussed in a stakeholder workshop and translated into health policy recommendations.

Results:

The methodological approach used in this study is the focus of this paper. The study is still ongoing and will continue until March 2024. The first study phase has already been completed, in which preliminary work has been done on potential applications and hurdles for the use of video consultations. Currently, the survey is being conducted and analyses are being prepared.

Conclusions:

This study is intended to develop a targeted strategy for health policy makers based on actual preferences and perceived obstacles for the use of video consultations. The results of this study will contribute to a user-oriented further development of the implementation of video consultations in German Statutory Health Insurance. Furthermore, the iterative and mixed-methods approach used in this study protocol is also suitable for a variety of other research projects.