Telemedicine in Healthcare Delivery: Knowledge, Attitude, and Skill Set of Medical Students in Selected Universities in Africa

Abstract

Abstract Background :Telemedicine is a rapidly expanding technology used in healthcare settings, especially since the emergence of COVID-19. For this intervention to be implemented successfully, important skills are required from health professionals. Hence, this study seeks to determine the preparedness of African medical students for the use of telemedicine in healthcare delivery by assessing their knowledge, attitude, and skill set , Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected online through a 33-item pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire from three selected medical schools in Africa. Data were analysed using descriptive and analytical statistics with a significant level of 0.05. Data analysis was done on SPSS version 20, Results : Only 559 respondents were eligible for the study. 338 (60.5%) were male and the most prevalent age range was 21-23 years (276, 49.4%). 346 (61.9%) had good knowledge while 461 (82.5%) expressed a good attitude toward telemedicine. Only 144 (25.8%) had a good skill set in using telemedicine. 513 (91.6%) respondents agreed and strongly agreed that the use of telemedicine should be included in medical training. There was a statistically significant association between the skill set of respondents and schools (p=0.001) and gender (p<0.001), Conclusions: The respondents have a good attitude but average knowledge and poor skill set of telemedicine usage in healthcare delivery. However, the majority are interested in learning about telemedicine in medical training. This study shows the need to incorporate telemedicine within the curricula of African medical schools.