Training Needs of Telemedicine Staff – A Pilot Study

Abstract

In this pilot study an attempt was made to assess the training needs of telemedicine practioners and telemedicine project staff working in the telemedicine units. A pre-validated self administered ‘Telemedicine Training Needs Assessment Tool’ containing 12 items was administered among 92 telemedicine practioners and project staff working in various telemedicine units in India. The responses revealed the mixed expectations with regard to their training in telemedicine. About 28% of the respondents were found to possess high level of competencies, 43% possess moderate level of competencies and 29% possessed low level of competencies with respect to telemedicine and its related activities. The findings of the study suggest that although the respondents of the present study are involved in telemedicine related works three-fourth of them requires formal training in the telemedicine.