Perceived Effectiveness, Financial Viability, Barriers, and Opportunities of a Pediatric Telemedicine Service in Negros Occidental

Abstract

Accelerated by the pandemic, telemedicine offers significant potential for pediatric care in Negros Occidental, yet it faces distinct implementation hurdles. This study evaluated its effectiveness, barriers, and financial viability through a survey of 160 pediatricians and a financial analysis of ten private clinics. Findings reveal that while physicians value telemedicine for its convenience and ability to reach remote patients, they consider it less effective for diagnosis than in-person examinations. Widespread adoption is further hindered by inadequate equipment, and legal concerns. Conversely, financial data indicates promising profitability and long-term sustainability for clinics. To unlock telemedicine’s full potential, the study recommends prioritizing infrastructure improvements and advanced diagnostic training to bridge current gaps. Future research should focus on validating virtual diagnostic tools and establishing robust regulatory frameworks, ensuring that telemedicine becomes a reliable, sustainable model for expanding healthcare access in underserved communities.