A consensus-based evaluation framework for telehealth in resource-constrained settings: evidence from a community Delphi study in Colombia - Summary - MDSpire
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A consensus-based evaluation framework for telehealth in resource-constrained settings: evidence from a community Delphi study in Colombia
To develop a consensus-based evaluation framework for a community telehealth program in Granizal, Antioquia, Colombia.
Approach:
Delphi Methodology: A three-round Delphi methodology was employed involving 15 panelists from various sectors to gather insights on telehealth evaluation.
Key Findings:
Consensus was achieved across seven evaluation domains: pre-visit data, post-visit data, follow-up data, health post resources, barriers, community engagement strategies, and access solutions.
Key barriers identified included limited connectivity, insufficient infrastructure, fragmented insurance coverage, workforce instability, and lack of political commitment.
Community health workers (CHWs) were recognized as vital for patient engagement and program sustainability.
Interpretation:
The framework integrates clinical, social, infrastructural, and behavioral indicators aligned with local realities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
Limitations:
The study may not be generalizable to all low-resource settings due to specific local conditions in Granizal.
Potential biases in panelist selection and responses may affect the consensus outcomes.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the importance of participatory approaches in designing telehealth evaluation frameworks, promoting equity and contextual relevance.