Development and implementation of a training package to improve the confidence, skills and knowledge of multi-disciplinary clinicians in the use of telepractice for outpatient services

Introduction: Telepractice is recognised as an effective and efficient medium of service delivery; however, despite this evidence, implementation has been inconsistent. Clinician confidence and perceptions are integral factors to the successful implementation of telepractice in routine care. This study aimed to develop, implement and evaluate a telepractice training package for clinicians in a single hospital service. Methods: Forty-one clinicians from Speech Pathology, Physiotherapy and Chronic Disease departments participated in a training package with a specific focus on staff skills training, access to resources and embedding telepractice models of care into organisational culture. Questionnaires were used to evaluate clinician self-reported skills and confidence at baseline, post-training and 6-months post-training. Thematic analysis of open-ended questions was used to glean a deeper understanding of perceived barriers and facilitators to using telepractice. Results: Participants' perceived knowledge and confidence significantly increased from baseline to immediately post-training (p < .001) and increased further to 6-months post-training (p < .001). Thematic analysis revealed three main enabling themes: (a) perceived benefits to patient care; (b) training and practice; and (c) resources and support; and four main barriers: (a) staff knowledge and training; (b) staff confidence; (c) client factors; and (d) infrastructure and resources. Conclusion: The telepractice training package improved staff skills and confidence which was sustained over time. Facilitating the uptake of telepractice is multidimensional and it is integral to address all relevant factors to ensure its success.