Challenges and Opportunities for Telemedicine Integration in Disaster Medicine: A Saudi Arabian Perspective

Abstract

Aim: Telemedicine has become a crucial tool in disaster medicine, enabling remote consultations, diagnostics, and patient monitoring when traditional healthcare systems are disrupted. This study examines the perceptions of telemedicine among 100 disaster medicine and emergency management professionals in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and areas for improvement. Materials and Methods: A descriptive survey design was employed to assess telemedicine perceptions among staff at the National Health Emergency Operations Center. A structured questionnaire, utilizing validated tools such as the Telemedicine Satisfaction and Usefulness Questionnaire and the Technology Acceptance Model, was used to collect quantitative data on telemedicine’s effectiveness, ease of use, and potential to replace in-person consultations during disasters. Regression analysis was conducted to identify the demographic and contextual factors that influenced the perceptions. The survey was administered electronically via WhatsApp over two weeks. Participation was voluntary, with informed consent obtained. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board. Results: A 75% response rate was achieved, with 75 participants completing the survey. Respondents reported that telemedicine significantly improved communication [mean=3.70, standard deviation (SD)=1.10] and enhanced patient care (mean=3.76, SD=1.08) during disasters. Confidence was moderate regarding telemedicine’s ease of use (mean=3.41, SD=1.11), reliability (mean=3.44, SD=1.13), and ability to replace in-person consultations (mean=2.94, SD=1.24). Regression analysis revealed gender as a significant predictor of perceptions of telemedicine-improving communication (p=0.035), with male participants reporting lower agreement. Other factors, such as age, experience, and perceived barriers, were not significant predictors. Conclusion: Telemedicine has substantial potential to enhance disaster response in Saudi Arabia, particularly in improving communication and care delivery during emergencies. Addressing technological and training challenges is critical for successful integration. These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to optimize disaster preparedness and response strategies.

Keywords

• telemedicine
• disaster medicine
• emergency management
• disaster response