Experiences of telehealth in general practice in Australia: research protocol for a mixed methods study

Abstract

BackgroundDue to the COVID-19 pandemic, use of telehealth has expanded rapidly. However, little is known about the impact of delivering care through telehealth on communication between clinicians and patients. At an interactional level, the ways in which clinicians establish rapport and connection with their patients in telehealth consultations is not well understood.AimThis study will explore interactional practices of general practitioners (GPs) and patients in telehealth consultations to develop evidence-based resources to improve communication.Design & settingThe study will be conducted within the Australian general practice setting.MethodConversation analysis and sociolinguistic discourse analysis of recorded telehealth consultations will provide direct evidence of specific elements contributing to successful and less successful instances of telehealth communication. This analysis will be complemented by co-design techniques such as qualitative and reflective interviews and collaborative workshops with telehealth users, including both general practitioners and patients.ConclusionEffective communication is critical for telehealth consultations and is central to achieving optimal clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. This study will co-develop with end-users, evidence-based guidelines encompassing effective telehealth communication strategies.