A questionnaire to measure the impact of ICT-based coordination mechanisms on clinical coordination: M Luisa Vázquez Navarrete. (25th October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Campaz, D; Vargas, I; Plaja, P; Sanclemente, M; Paino, M; Madrid, MT; Vázquez, ML
• Is Part Of: European journal of public health. Volume 32(2022)Supplement 3
• Publication Date: 2022-10-25
• Subjects: Epidemiology -- Europe -- Periodicals; Public health -- Europe -- Periodicals; 362.109405
• DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac130.118
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1101-1262

Abstract

Abstract: Background: In national health systems based on primary care, cross-level clinical coordination (CC) is a priority, as it may improve quality of care. Evidence on the impact of information and communication technology (ICT)-based coordination mechanisms on CC is inconclusive. The implementation of those mechanisms increased during the pandemic. The aim is to adapt the validated COORDENA-CAT questionnaire, for measuring CC, to analyse the implementation of ICT-based coordination mechanisms and its impact on CC in three regions of Spain. Methods: The COORDENA-CAT questionnaire underwent a two-stage adaptation process:1) contents revision based on literature review, expert discussions, and pretest to adapt the contents and language and produce a version for each region; and 2) piloting the adapted version by self-administration of the questionnaire to primary and secondary care doctors in the health systems of two of the participating regions. Results: The adapted version (COORDENA-TICs) kept most of the original contents. Main changes were on coordination mechanisms section. Pretest showed an adequate level of comprehensiveness, comprehension, sequence of themes and questions, and length. A low non-response rate was observed, with little variability or unexpected responses. The question on any difficulties encountered in answering the questionnaire revealed no relevant difficulties. The Shared Electronic Medical Record of each region was the most frequently used ICT-based coordination mechanism. Limited access to information and technical issues related to its use were the most common difficulties encountered. Suggestions for improving its use were receiving specific training on its use. Conclusions: COORDENA-TICs questionnaire is a useful tool to assess utilization of ICT-based coordination mechanisms and its impact on CC from the perspective of primary and secondary care doctors. It will allow comparisons across areas, regions and to evaluate changes over time Key messages: Evidence on the impact of ICT-based coordination mechanisms on clinical coordination is inconclusive. COORDENA-TICs questionnaire could be useful to measure the impact of ICT-based coordination mechanisms on clinical coordination.