Evaluation of Telemedicine Satisfaction Among Naval Radiologists

Abstract

Abstract : The focus of this study was to assess levels of satisfaction and experience among radiologists using teleradiology and other telemedicine technologies at the Naval Medical Center, San Diego (NMCSD). This study was conducted using a survey administered to resident radiologists, radiologists, and radiology specialists. The survey information was used to compare and contrast the attitudes of users and measure their recent use of telemedicine. This study included assessment and comparison of radiology-specific technologies not addressed in previous studies, such as wireless radiography and computed radiography (CR). A secondary focus of this study was to assess the generalizability of the satisfaction survey instrument used across other telemedicine disciplines. A 60-item survey assessing satisfaction with telemedicine technologies was administered to 20 radiologists at NMCSD. Data from a previous ear/nose/throat (ENT) specialist is included as a comparison with data collected in the present study. Questions assessing general perceptions of telemedicine were the same for both studies. The differences between the two surveys were primarily in details of technologies listed as being specific to each specialty. Items measuring satisfaction, perception, and usefulness, as well as history of use and demographic data were presented. A final open-ended question was included to capture other possible answers not included in the scales. Respondents, ENT and radiology personnel alike, were generally satisfied with the telemedicine technology and process and had very similar positive attitudes about telemedicine in general. The ENT medical personnel responded positively to specific telemedicine technologies specific to their practice, (e.g., Referral Management System and video teleconferencing), and the radiology personnel responded positively to specific radiological technologies (e.g., wireless and CR).