J Korean Med Assoc.  2024 Jun;67(6):423-428. 10.5124/jkma.2024.67.6.423.

Challenges and improvement opportunities in a telemedicine pilot project

• Kim JS
• Oh SH

• KMID: 2556026
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2024.67.6.423

Abstract

Background
A pilot project for telemedicine has been underway since June 2023. However, ongoing issues have persisted since its implementation. This study aimed to review the current status and challenges of this project and recommend necessary improvements.
Current Concepts
The following challenges were observed. First, the primary and incidental effects of this pilot project were not presented. It is not a small-scale project as it targets the entire population without a strict predesign. Its evaluation must have a defined implementation period. Currently, an indefinite implementation period has been proposed until the medical law is revised. Second, safety measures were found to be inadequate. Lastly, from an industrial standpoint, the government unilaterally promoted telemedicine policies.
Discussion and Conclusion
Enhancements should be implemented in this telemedicine pilot project to ensure safety. First, the project objectives were clearly defined. Clear policy effects and evaluation criteria should be presented, and the project should be implemented through a rigorous policy design to verify them. Second, policy measures should be established to ensure safety. Lastly, administrative and legal improvements related to telemedicine should be implemented simultaneously.

Keyword

Telemedicine; Pilot projects; Patient safety; Healthcare policy; 비대면 진료; 시범사업; 환자안전; 보건의료정책