GPs’ and Patients’ Perceptions regarding Suitability of Remote Consultations: Matched data from Norwegian General Practice

Børge Lønnebakke Norberg, Bjarne Austad, Linn Okkenahug Getz, Paolo Zanaboni

Keywords: Remote consultations, telemedicine, e-health, digital medicine, suitability, communication, safety, general practice, family medicine,

Background:

There is a notable lack of research involving studies that incorporate shared perceptions of remote consultations by both GPs and patients. We therefore examine common perceptions and misconceptions about whether patient and GPs find remote consultations safe and suitable.

Research questions:

The research questions are to what extent GPs and patients align in their perceptions of the suitability of remote consultations, and secondly, to identify characteristics of GPs, patients, and remote consultations linked to whether GPs and patients agree or disagree on suitability.

Method:

To measure the level of agreement between GPs and patients on suitability, we provide an agreement matrix of 580 matched answers, incorporating 50 background variables. For the second research question, we use descriptive statistics, Chi quadrate and logistic regression to analyze agreement between GPs and patients on suitability, with background variables as predictors.

Results:

The shared perception of suitability between GPs and patients is higher when remote consultations are arranged by the patients or GPs rather than by secretaries or relatives. Allowing patients to ask questions and receive useful answers enhances this shared perception. There is higher shared suitability for known and non-urgent issues, and when GPs experience remote consultations as a variation in their daily routine, and for managing sick leave and vulnerable patients. However, shared perception of suitability decreases significantly with multiple topics, perceived complexity, GP exhaustion, and GPs’ concerns about overlooking serious illness. Trust in the patient's health competence and communication skills positively affects suitability. Consultations for overviews and follow-ups receive the highest shared suitability.

Conclusions:

Addressing these factors in advance may enhance the consultation experience and outcomes, ensuring that both patient needs and clinical standards are met effectively.

Points for discussion:

Making guidelines for how and when to use remote consultations?

Discuss when it is even better?

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