Piloting an In Situ Training Program in Video Consultations in a Gynaecological Outpatient Clinic at a University Hospital: A Qualitative Study of the Healthcare Professionals’ Perspectives

TL;DR

This study explores healthcare professionals' experiences with a pilot training program for video consultations in a gynaecological clinic, highlighting its feasibility and benefits.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel in situ training program for video consultations with a focus on patient-centred communication and technical skills in a gynaecological setting.

Findings

In situ training with peer feedback is relevant for implementing video consultations.

Visual contact via video is advantageous over phone consultations.

Patient triage is essential for effective video consultation planning.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The successful integration of video consultations in routine hospital care requires further research. This study explores how healthcare professionals experienced and engaged with a pilot training program in video consultations (VCs), focusing on patient-centred communication and technical skills. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted at a gynaecological outpatient clinic in a Danish university hospital. In October 2022, healthcare professionals (n = 8) piloted a training program in VCs with patients suffering from gynaecological disorders, followed by semi-structured interviews. Our data analysis was inductive and inspired by thematic analysis, as proposed by Braun and Clarke. Results: Our analysis resulted in an overall theme, namely feasible, with context-dependent considerations, and followed by four other themes:, namely that (1) pre in situ training presents benefits and challenges, (2) consultation via video can be an advantage to consultations via phone or in-clinic, (3) individual planning and organising is a must, and (4) video consultation calls for new competencies. Conclusions: Our study indicates that a training program focusing on patient-centred communication, technical skills and in situ training with peer feedback is relevant when implementing VCs. Visual contact was an advantage of VC versus phone; however, patient triage was identified as essential when planning VCs. Overall, VCs are feasible in a gynaecological outpatient setting when their implementation is supported by an in situ training program and with ongoing technical support available.

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