A consensus-based evaluation framework for telehealth in resource-constrained settings: evidence from a community Delphi study in Colombia - Report - MDSpire
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A consensus-based evaluation framework for telehealth in resource-constrained settings: evidence from a community Delphi study in Colombia
Clinical Report: A Framework for Evaluating Telehealth in Low-Resource Environments
Overview
This study presents a consensus-based evaluation framework for telehealth in Granizal, Colombia, developed through a Delphi methodology involving community stakeholders. Key findings highlight the integration of clinical, social, and infrastructural indicators to address barriers to care in underserved populations.
Background
Telehealth has emerged as a strategy to enhance healthcare access for marginalized populations facing geographic and financial barriers. In Colombia, rural communities like Granizal experience challenges in accessing routine care despite formal insurance coverage. Developing evaluation frameworks is essential to ensure that telehealth initiatives are effective in these contexts.
Data Highlights
No numerical data available in the article.
Key Findings
Consensus was achieved across seven evaluation domains, including pre-visit and post-visit data.
Panelists prioritized comprehensive clinical and sociodemographic data for effective evaluation.
Identified barriers included limited connectivity, insufficient infrastructure, and workforce instability.
Community health workers were recognized as vital for patient engagement and program sustainability.
The framework integrates clinical, social, infrastructural, and behavioral indicators aligned with local realities.
Clinical Implications
The framework developed in this study emphasizes the need for community involvement in telehealth evaluations. It highlights the importance of addressing infrastructural and digital barriers.
Conclusion
This study illustrates the development of evaluation frameworks for telehealth in underserved areas. The Granizal model serves as a strategy for enhancing telehealth evaluation in similar contexts.
Screening data from a UK clinical trial found low vitamin D levels in 55% of older patients and 72% of ethnic patients, with little variation despite summer months.
