Rural patients highly satisfied with gynaecological oncology care via telehealth

Abstract

Introduction of telehealth for gynaecological oncology consultations aims to improve access to specialised care for rural and remote Queensland women with gynaecological malignancies. This survey examines patient satisfaction with gynaecological oncology consultations via telehealth after introduction of the service in Far North Queensland in 2017. Patients who accessed the gynaecological oncology telehealth service at Cairns Hospital from January 2019 to June 2020 were invited to participate in the study. Demographic details and results of a satisfaction survey were investigated. The questionnaire included 16 statements measured on a five-point Likert scale and three open-ended questions, which were coded into related responses and predominant themes developed. Fifty-three patients completed the study. The mean satisfaction score across all questions was 90.5% (standard deviation 8.7%). The lowest overall patient score was 77.5% and the highest was 100%. Themes emerging from the open questions were emotions experienced by women, communication, relationship building and acceptability of the service. Patients were highly satisfied with the telehealth service. Our findings encourage further development and research into telehealth care models for surgical disciplines such as gynaecological oncology.