QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF EMS PROVIDER FOCUS GROUP ASSESSMENT OF A RURAL EMS TELEMEDICAL PROGRAM

Abstract

Introduction: Several new approaches to EMS patient care require EMS providers to utilize telemedical services. One such pilot program implemented a rural EMS telemedicine program using a broadband communication platform connecting EMS providers to board certified emergency medicine physicians as well as traditional telemedicine urgent care services. The aim of this study was to obtain qualitative EMS provider feedback on the program as a measurement of the general impact and effectivity of this pilot. Methods: A blinded qualitative study methodology was used to collect program feedback from EMS providers through structured focus meetings. Participants were given a short survey regarding the pilot program, which was followed by a facilitated discussion on their experiences and suggestions. A reviewer, blinded to the pilot project and study subject participants, then performed a retrospective review of the discussion to identify common themes. Comments within each common theme were grouped into positive, negative, and neutral sentiments toward the program. To quantify themes, the number of words spent discussing each topic was analyzed relative to the number of words spoken in total. Results: Between 10/22/2021 and 10/27/2021, 10 providers participated in on-site focus group discussions. Positive sentiments included: with physician support, EMS personnel felt relieved of some strain regarding difficult transport decisions, had less pushback from patients on treatment and transport decisions, and received enhanced and prompt support in comparison to conventional medical direction. Negative sentiments included: lack of physician availability, since some instances occurred where EMS initiated a call that was not picked up or returned within protocol time limit; connectivity issues; and the lack of iPad durability compared to other technological hardware in EMS. The quantity of overall positive sentiment and desire to continue using AzREADI was reflected in an averaged score of 8.625/10 when providers rated on a scale from one to ten whether they would like to continue using the program, with a rating of ten meaning “strongly agree”. Conclusion: EMS providers participating in a rural EMS telemedicine pilot program expressed positive themes more commonly than negative themes. Further work to address areas identified for improvement might make the program even more appealing to EMS providers.