Using Telehealth for Assessment of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: The Experience of Two Canadian Rural and Remote Communities

Abstract

Telehealth has been used for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) diagnostic assessment in select Manitoban communities since 2000. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the FASD telehealth program within two rural and remote Northern Manitoban communities by comparing community practices from the perspective of professionals working with the FASD diagnostic clinics in these communities. Recommendations for the further development of FASD assessment by telehealth were made to further improve current implementation and guide expansion of the FASD telehealth program within the province. Semistructured interviews were conducted from October 19 to December 11, 2009. Participants (N = 26) were comprised of professionals, including those in the education, social services, and health sectors. Two themes emerged from the data and covered the perceived strengths and drawbacks with the program, and meaningful suggestions to improve the service. Participants regarded the FASD telehealth program as successful and useful, especially given the remote location of the communities and the lack of on-site services. Recommendations addressing the barriers pertaining to the process were made from the study's findings and available scientific literature. This study will provide a solid basis for the successful further development of the FASD telehealth programs.