The adoption of eHealth technologies in allied health is lagging despite its potential to revolutionize service delivery, especially in rural and remote areas. The scoping review titled "A scoping review of Australian allied health research in ehealth" sheds light on the current state of eHealth applications in Australia, revealing key insights that practitioners can leverage to improve their practice and patient outcomes.
Key Findings and Recommendations
The review summarized 44 studies focused on eHealth applications in various allied health professions, including speech pathology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and audiology. Here are some actionable insights:
- Embrace eHealth for Service Delivery: Clinicians have shown a tendency to use ICT primarily for administrative tasks and professional development rather than direct service delivery. This contrasts with the positive attitudes and experiences of clients. Practitioners should consider integrating eHealth into their service delivery models to meet client expectations and improve accessibility.
- Utilize Existing Evidence: The review found that eHealth assessments and interventions are as effective as face-to-face delivery. Practitioners can confidently implement eHealth solutions, knowing they are supported by robust evidence.
- Address Barriers to Adoption: Common barriers include lack of ICT support and concerns about patient-clinician relationships. Addressing these issues through training and organizational support can facilitate broader adoption of eHealth technologies.
- Focus on Client-Centered Care: The review highlights a gap in understanding the client perspective. Practitioners should prioritize client feedback and experiences when implementing eHealth solutions to ensure they meet the needs and preferences of their patients.
Encouraging Further Research
While the review provides a solid foundation, there is a need for further research to address the following areas:
- Client Experiences: More studies are needed to explore the client experience with eHealth, particularly in varied contexts and conditions.
- Innovative Service Delivery Models: Research should focus on developing and testing innovative eHealth service delivery models that go beyond replicating traditional practices.
- System-Level Supports: Investigate the role of system-level supports, such as organizational commitment and investment, in facilitating the adoption of eHealth technologies.
By embracing eHealth and addressing these research gaps, practitioners can improve service delivery and outcomes for their clients, particularly those in underserved rural and remote areas.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A scoping review of Australian allied health research in ehealth.
