An exploration of the factors impacting the use of videoconferencing-based Telehealth in remote Australia.

The half a million people who live in remote Australia are more likely to die or have greater ongoing health problems than those in urban Australia. Mortality and morbidity of people located in remote geographies continues to be worse that people in urban areas. They also have poorer internet connectivity, less digital literacy skills and higher cost of internet services than urban Australia. There are high percentages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in remote areas.

Limited access to health services is likely to be a factor effecting this situation. Medicare data and research literature indicates Telehealth is not being used as much in remote Australia as in urban settings.

Sociological theories may help to predict, measure, and influence the adoption and effectiveness of Telehealth in remote areas of Australia. This research will explore the barriers and enablers for Telehealth and the perceived value of videoconference-based Telehealth for remote healthcare from both the healthcare provider and consumers’ perspective.