A Survey on the Use of Telemedicine in Healthcare System Among the Students of Daffodil International University

Abstract

Background: Telemedicine is the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely. This technology has been around for several decades but has gained significant attention and usage in recent years, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine has provided a means for patients to receive medical care without having to visit a doctor in person, reducing the risk of infection transmission and making healthcare services more accessible. Objective: To investigate the current state of telemedicine use, benefits and limitations, and to gain insights into the attitudes and experiences of healthcare professionals and patients towards telemedicine services, with the aim of identifying areas for improvement and potential opportunities for further adoption. Method: An online survey was conducted on students at Daffodil International University in Dhaka, Bangladesh, utilizing a Google Form. The survey was shared through various means including email, Facebook, and other social media platforms. A questionnaire was designed, and data was collected. The results will be analyzed and compiled into a detailed report that will include tables and graphs, as well as recommendations for further research and improving telemedicine services. Result: The survey involved 151 students, of which 92.7% reported having knowledge of telemedicine, and 7.3% reported having no knowledge of it. The majority of participants were male (73.5%) and female were (26.5%). 51.7% had used telemedicine services before, with the remaining 48.3% having not used them. The questionnaire was completed mostly by pharmacy department students (61.6%), with only 2.6% of students from the EEE department filling it out. Sources of information about telemedicine services included doctors, family members, friends, online searches, textbooks, and the internet. Those who have not used telemedicine services expressed concerns about preferring in-person consultations, quality doubts, distrust of technology, and data security concerns. A majority of individuals (63.8%) indicated they are likely to use telemedicine services in the future, while approximately 32.3% are considering it, and only 3.8% have no intention of using it. Conclusion: In conclusion, the survey findings suggest that telemedicine has become an increasingly important aspect of healthcare delivery. It provides numerous benefits such as increased access to healthcare services, improved patient outcomes, and reduced healthcare costs. Despite the advantages, the study also identified some limitations and challenges, including concerns about data security and privacy, lack of technological infrastructure, and inadequate reimbursement policies. It is recommended that healthcare systems and policymakers address these challenges to further promote the adoption of telemedicine services. Overall, the survey indicates that telemedicine has great potential to transform the healthcare system and enhance the delivery of patient-centered care. Keywords: Telemedicine, healthcare, technology, patient, doctor, care, cost, Bangladesh.