Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. , R.Rahimi@modares.ac.ir
Abstract: (56 Views)
Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and disabling neurological disease requiring innovative care models to improve access to and quality of care in Iran. Telehealth has significant potential, but the lack of a comprehensive native framework is a major barrier to its successful implementation. This study aimed to determine the requirements for a comprehensive framework for deploying telehealth services for MS patients using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research 2.0 (CFIR 2.0).
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2025 using purposive sampling with maximum variation. Twenty-two participants, including neurologists, nurses, hospital managers, patients, and an insurance organization representative, were selected. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews until saturation was reached. Data analysis was performed using conventional content analysis within the five domains of CFIR 2.0 (Intervention Characteristics, Outer Setting, Inner Setting, Characteristics of Individuals, and Process).
Results: Data analysis yielded 10 main themes and 32 sub-themes. These requirements were categorized into five main domains: designing an integrated and user-friendly platform, establishing a transparent legal and insurance framework, culture building and technical integration, empowering providers and patients, and strategic planning with phased implementation. The theme "legal and insurance requirements" was the most frequent (82%).
Conclusion: The requirements identified across five domains can serve as a practical roadmap for policymakers, health managers, and service providers in designing and implementing telehealth programs for MS patients. These requirements, by simultaneously covering technical, human, organizational, and legal dimensions, enable the identification of implementation barriers at every level.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2025 using purposive sampling with maximum variation. Twenty-two participants, including neurologists, nurses, hospital managers, patients, and an insurance organization representative, were selected. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews until saturation was reached. Data analysis was performed using conventional content analysis within the five domains of CFIR 2.0 (Intervention Characteristics, Outer Setting, Inner Setting, Characteristics of Individuals, and Process).
Results: Data analysis yielded 10 main themes and 32 sub-themes. These requirements were categorized into five main domains: designing an integrated and user-friendly platform, establishing a transparent legal and insurance framework, culture building and technical integration, empowering providers and patients, and strategic planning with phased implementation. The theme "legal and insurance requirements" was the most frequent (82%).
Conclusion: The requirements identified across five domains can serve as a practical roadmap for policymakers, health managers, and service providers in designing and implementing telehealth programs for MS patients. These requirements, by simultaneously covering technical, human, organizational, and legal dimensions, enable the identification of implementation barriers at every level.
Keywords: Telehealth, Multiple Sclerosis, Iran, Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), Qualitative Study, Framework Design
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Health Information Technology
Received: 2025/11/25 | Accepted: 2026/06/9
Received: 2025/11/25 | Accepted: 2026/06/9
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