Factors that may influence the implementation of nurse-centred telemedicine services

A qualitative study of four UK telemedicine sites was carried out to explor e reactions to nurse-centred telemedicine services and their possible impli cations. Using semistructured schedules, 36 people directly involved in the se services were interviewed -25 nurses, four general practitioners, two ad vising medical consultants, three service managers and two researchers. Fac tors identified which may influence successful implementation included: ear ly involvement of all groups affected, prior consideration of the practical implications, thorough initial equipment testing, good technical support, imaginative training and clarity of the purpose of the service. The study s howed that all those involved must be prepared for the rapid learning that is implicit in the implementation of change. The challenge is to maximize t he potential for the primary operator to use new techniques. In respect of nurse-centred services, the nurse must not be viewed as a technician, nor s hould telemedicine be seen as a substitute for an available doctor.