Incorporating Telehealth into Primary Care Resident Outpatient Training

Abstract

Research is yet to fully examine the utility and effectiveness of telehealth in primary care resident ambulatory training. This study examined the attitudes of preceptors, residents, and nurses on (1) the impact of telehealth on healthcare; (2) the impact of telehealth on the work activity of resident clinics; (3) the impact of telehealth on resident training in the outpatient setting; and (4) the impact of telehealth on relationships. There were three focus groups, one each of preceptors (N = 5), residents (N = 10), nurses (N = 7). Eight focus group themes evolved regarding the use of telehealth in the resident clinic: (1) impact on patient/provider relationships; (2) consistent with the values of those using telehealth; (3) logistics; (4) reduces patient transfers; (5) appropriate level of care; (6) reimbursement concerns; (7) psychological risk; and (8) impact on resident/attending relationships. Though as yet not generalizable, results of this pilot study suggest that there is general acceptability of telehealth in ambulatory resident training settings, but there is concern about the impact that telehealth may have on relationships, logistics, finances, and the need to see patients face-to-face when there is greater complexity.