Palliative Patients’ and Relatives’ Views on Using Telemedicine in Palliative Care – A Pilot Study from Southern Denmark

Abstract

Background: Many people want to die at home. Telemedicine could probably provide better access to specialised palliative care especially in rural areas. Method: A qualitative study with interviews of patients and relatives. The informants were asked for their opinion about telemedicine and their interest in participation in consultations via telemedicine. 15 palliative patients (7 women and 8 men aged 29-80 years) and 5 relatives were included. Results: Most participants from our study are positive about using telemedicine in palliative care. Besides the more personal contact, another advantage might be that relatives and other health carers may also participate in video-consultations. Most men stated that it would be easier to show bodily changes and that the contact could be more personal. Many women prefer consultations by phone. Many informants state that telemedicine could not replace a face-to-face meeting, but would be superior compared to a phone call. Conclusion: Our pilot study suggests that the overall idea of using telemedicine in palliative care is acceptable for almost all patients and relatives. Nevertheless, many women from our pilot study would prefer a telephone consultation without a camera. Future research should aim to investigate patients' and relatives' experiences with telemedicine in palliative care.