Title: The feasibility of cross-sector videoconferences in discharge planning among stroke patients: a mixed-methods study scrutinising patient and staff perspectives

Authors: Simone Hofman Rosenkranz; Anne Argir Falster; Tina Strid Carstensen; Lone Lundbak Mathiesen; Helle Klingenberg Iversen; Charlotte Kira Kimby

Addresses: Research and Test Center for Health Technologies, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 2, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark ' Research and Test Center for Health Technologies, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 2, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark ' Research and Test Center for Health Technologies, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 2, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark ' Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup. Valdemar Hansens Vej 13, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark ' Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup. Valdemar Hansens Vej 13, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark ' Research and Test Center for Health Technologies, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup. Valdemar Hansens Vej 2, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark

Abstract: We tested the quality and effectiveness of cross-sector videoconferences in planning the discharge of stroke patients. Throughout the trial, time registration and structured patient interviews were conducted. During intervention, a self-administered questionnaire and semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted among staff. Patient and staff questionnaires revealed high satisfaction with discharge videoconferences, and substantial savings on transport was registered among municipalities. Through focus groups, detailed workflow descriptions, ongoing staff education, detailed care-plans, the availability of a 'super user', and a suitable conference room were important when conducting a videoconference. Additionally, interviews revealed concern among staff regarding whether communication and observation through videoconferencing is sufficient to ensure that rehabilitation meets the patient's needs. This study offers opportunities to overcome geographical and economic challenges in discharge planning without compromising quality of care. Furthermore, the results create a foundation for further exploration of how discharge videoconferences affect workflow, communication, and quality of care.

Keywords: patient discharge; videoconferencing; discharge videoconferences; stroke rehabilitation; cross-sector cooperation; continued care.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTMCP.2018.093620

International Journal of Telemedicine and Clinical Practices, 2018 Vol.3 No.1, pp.44 - 61

Received: 08 Jan 2018
Accepted: 07 Feb 2018
Published online: 30 Jul 2018 *

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