Clinical supervision and education via videoconference: a feasibility project

Abstract

Clinical supervision and education was provided to a total of 20 psycho-oncology staff by videoconference. Monthly group sessions, with 3–5 participants, were held via multipoint videoconference at a bandwidth of 256 kbit/s. Sessions consisted of a one-hour educational presentation followed by one-hour of case discussion. In addition, participants were offered individual telephone supervision each month. Participants completed evaluations before and after the project, and following each group session. They were asked to rate their confidence in dealing with a range of problems. There were significant increases in self-reported confidence in the areas covered by the educational component, e.g. assessing and treating pain in people with cancer ( P<0.01). In addition, self-assessment of overall effectiveness in current management of psychological distress from pre- to post-evaluation increased by 25%. Participants indicated that attending the educational sessions increased their knowledge (mean = 7.3 out of 10). With regard to telephone supervision, most (80%) were very or extremely satisfied. The feedback indicated that remote supervision was well received and that participants were keen to continue their involvement.