COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS NEEDED IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC PATIENTS’ NEEDS THROUGH TELECARE

Abstract

Aim: To identify the necessary competencies that future professionals must obtain in order to effectively manage patients with chronic conditions. We employed a multilayer review in PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane. Materials and Methods: We applied three searches in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane using various terms in order to identify the necessary skills and competences needed for healthcare professionals to provide distance care in patients with chronic conditions. From the initial search, a total of 1008 studies were identified while 54 met the inclusion criteria and were retained for data extraction. After the review of the 54 studies, we grouped the proposed skills and competencies in eight major categories. Those groups were Clinical Knowledge, Critical Thinking Skills, Technological Skills, Clinical skills, Communication skills, Implementation skills, Professionalism and professional ethics, Evidence based Practice. Conclusions: Although telehealth is gaining ground in healthcare practice and healthcare professionals possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe, effective, and personalized care, additional specialized training is nevertheless required to provide telecare. Therefore, the integration of telehealth into various healthcare professions curricula - both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels – is required for the development of education and the dynamic development of healthcare.