Physicians’ satisfaction with the use of teleconsultation in France

Abstract

Background: Physicians are showing a growing interest in teleconsultation, particularly since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Surveying physicians' satisfaction with telehealth helps identify areas of strength and weaknesses that need improvement to support the promotion of telemedicine in the future. This study aimed to evaluate physician satisfaction rates and perspectives on teleconsultation. Methods: A 20-item online survey on teleconsultation use, including benefits, disadvantages, and suggested optimal modalities, was distributed and collected anonymously among physicians working at a university hospital. Results: Out of 145 physicians who responded, 73.8% were satisfied with teleconsultation, and 79.3% considered that this service will persist in the future. The main disadvantages raised by the physicians were the use of the telephone for remote consultation, the risk of dehumanization of the doctor-patient relationship, and the belief of a greater risk of medical errors than in a face-to-face setting. Of the doctors who responded to our survey, 54% said that the time needed for a teleconsultation should be similar to that of a face-to-face consultation, i.e., 15 to 20 minutes. Conclusions: Most physicians were satisfied with teleconsultation. However, improvements in digital tools such as usability and efficiency are necessary for teleconsultation development in the future. Alongside these technological imperatives, the fear of an increase in medical errors and dehumanization of the doctor-patient relationship are issues that must be closely considered to promote telemedicine in medical practice. © 2023 Journal of Hospital Management and Health Policy.