Keywords: primary care, family doctors, telemedicine, consultations and safety
Introduction:
Family doctors in Romania are frequently contacted by patients for remote consultations, both formally through practice-provided telemedicine services and informally via various communication platforms. Telemedicine, as defined by Romanian law (Law 95/2006; GEO 196/18.11.2020), encompasses all medical services delivered remotely—without the simultaneous physical presence of the patient and medical staff—through secure information technology and electronic communication. The expansion of teleconsultations has improved access to healthcare, particularly for patients in remote areas, vulnerable groups, and elderly individuals with chronic conditions. However, concerns persist regarding the safety, confidentiality, and potential risk of misdiagnosis associated with remote medical care. This study aims to assess the perceived safety of teleconsultations among family doctors in Romania, identify their concerns, and explore potential methods to enhance the safety and regulatory framework of telemedicine.
Method:
The research will be conducted using a structured questionnaire, divided into three sections: (1) demographic data of participants, (2) types of telemedicine services provided and perceived risks, and (3) potential solutions and the needs of family doctors to improve service safety. The questionnaire will be distributed within the Romanian family doctor community via various communication platforms between February 20 and March 7, 2025. Data will be analyzed using SPSS.
Results:
The expected results aim to highlight the primary concerns of Romanian healthcare providers regarding teleconsultations, particularly in comparison to in-person visits. The study will explore how the perceived safety of teleconsultations varies based on factors such as provider experience, patient demographics, and the geographic region of the practice. Additionally, it will assess the perceived risk of misdiagnosis or patient harm in remote consultations and identify potential measures to enhance the safety of teleconsultations in primary care settings.
Conclusions:
The study results will be shared with health authorities and could serve as a foundation for developing targeted educational programs.
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