An Evaluation of the Provision of Oncology Rehabilitation Services via Telemedicine Using a Participatory Design Approach
Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally impacted the delivery of healthcare services globally. In line with UK government guidelines on social distancing, the use of telemedicine was implemented to facilitate the ongoing provision of cancer rehabilitation. Purpose We sought to evaluate and co-design telemedicine services to meet the complex needs of our patients and carers at a tertiary cancer centre. Methods Experience based co-design (EBCD) methodology was adapted to include virtual methods. Staff members (n = 12) and patients (n = 11) who had delivered or received or delivered therapies services at our UK cancer centre since March 2020 were recruited to take part in one-to-one virtual interviews. Patient interviews were video recorded, analysed and edited to a 30-minute summary video. Patient and staff virtual events were undertaken thereafter. A joint virtual patient and staff event occurred, where staff could see the video and with patients as partners, agree areas for change and develop groups for service co-design. Results Positive aspects regarding telemedicine provision were highlighted including reduced financial and time burden on patients, and increased flexibility for both staff and patients. The key concerns included digital exclusion, safety, communication and patient choice. Four co-design groups have been established to enact changes in these priority areas. Conclusion Using a participatory design approach, we have worked in partnership with patients and staff to ensure the safe, acceptable and effective delivery of rehabilitation services with integrated telemedicine.