Information and communication technology and the future of healthcare: Results of a multi-scenario Delphi survey

Abstract

Technological advances toward consumer-specific expectations require a sustained commitment and coordination across policy- and decision-makers. The present scenario-based study aimed at identifying prevailing perceptions regarding telehealth applications among Austrian healthcare experts. During a two-round online Delphi survey, panelists rated perceived benefits, obstacles, innovativeness, desirability, and estimated implementation date of 10 telehealth scenarios. Panelists (n = 73, 74% males) perceived that the implementation of telehealth scenarios could especially improve patients’ knowledge, quality of social healthcare, and living standard. In contrast, the three top-ranked obstacles were costs, technical prerequisites, and data security. Survey participants rated innovativeness of the presented future scenarios as quite high, whereas perceived desirability was moderate. Overall, ratings suggested precautious attitudes toward technological innovations. The survey findings suggest building taskforces and enhancing communication between healthcare stakeholders to proactively shape the future of telehealth in Austria.