Healthcare Providers' Satisfaction with Implementation of Telemedicine in Ambulatory Care during COVID-19

Introduction: Telemedicine has become a critical aspect of healthcare provision during the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). However, healthcare providers' utilization of and satisfaction with telemedicine technologies could have a significant impact on the quality of care provided to patients during COVID-19. The current study explores the key factors that could affect healthcare providers' satisfaction with telemedicine in ambulatory care during the pandemic. Objectives: This research study aims at identifying the factors that could influence the healthcare providers' satisfaction level with the use of telemedicine in ambulatory care services in Saudi Arabia during COVID 19. Methods: This is a descriptive quantitative cross-sectional study. The research team has utilized the Service Quality Model (SERVQUAL) to assess the healthcare providers' satisfaction with telemedicine in ambulatory care through a questionnaire that was adapted from previous studies. This questionnaire includes the following dimensions: tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. It was distributed to all ambulatory care physicians in a public hospital-based ambulatory health center in Eastern Region, Saudi Arabia. Results: The study findings showed that Saudis are significantly more satisfied with telemedicine compared to non-Saudis. Age, gender, experience, medical specialty, and computer literacy skills were not found to have any significant effects on the level of the provider's satisfaction. Conclusion: This research provides new insight and understanding of the relationship between the frequent use of the health information system and the level of physician satisfaction. This major finding puts more emphasis on the importance of education and training when it comes to the adoption of telemedicine through the frequent use of health information systems and applications. These encouraging findings provide a vital piece of information for healthcare organizations interested in a further adoption of telemedicinal practices and applications.