Date of Award

2019

Degree Name

Healthcare Administration

College

College of Business

Type of Degree

M.S.

Document Type

Research Paper

First Advisor

Alberto Coustasse

Abstract

Introduction: Telecardiology has been defined as a way of practicing cardiology through the utilization of telecommunications and a more cost-effective way to deliver cardiac care. As a subset of telemedicine, telecardiology has functioned to bring providers to underserved communities through technological mechanisms. Rural regions have turned to telemedicine and tapped into a network of clinical institutions exchanging practitioners and patients to emphasize value-based instead of volume-based care.

Methodology: The methodology of this qualitative study was a literature review having used mixed methodologies. Five electronic databases and government websites were utilized, and one semi-structured interview with an expert in cardiology was conducted. There were 34 sources referenced in the literature review.

Results: The research demonstrated how the utilization of telecardiology has increased access to care in isolated rural areas via resources such as smartphone apps and outreach sites. Additionally, it was found that the use of non-invasive, wearable technology and other modern communication technologies presented a more cost-effective and efficient solution to expensive health care facilities, while allowing patients to remain comfortable in their home environments.

Discussion/ Conclusion: Telecardiology technology has shown to have positive impacts on access to care, the delivery process of care, and financial burdens of care for patients living in rural settings. Through telecardiology services, patients in rural areas have had higher frequencies of interaction with their cardiologist/healthcare provider.

Subject(s)

Health services administration.

Cardiology.

Telecommunication in medicine.

Electronics in cardiology.

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