Investigation of the Critical Factors of Success in Telepathology an International Comparison Study

Abstract

The research study at the University of Constance had been set up in 1998 to investigate the factors of success in telepathology. Telepathology is defined as 'pathology at distance'. It is mainly used for primary telediagnostic and -consultation, quality assurance, distance education, or expert discussions. The Ph.D. study started with an extensive analysis of recent literature and a detailed field study at the Univ. of Basel (dynamic-robotic system user). Then questionnaires were sent to users and non-users of telepathology systems to request their opinion about certain criteria in telepathology such as liability, efficiency, or diagnostic accuracy. The meaning of each criterion could have been rated by a scale from +4 (high impact) to zero. 40 users and 72 non-users returned their questionnaire. All judgements referring to the interest in certain telepathology services, the relevance of various factors to telepathology's success, and the judgement of advantages and disadvantages were distinguished in users' and non-users' ratings. Further values were investigated by regarding the age, computer experience, attitude towards new technologies, size of institution/department, degree of specialization, and participant's interest in cooperation. In addition, several accuracy aspects were examined by referring to the kind of system employed (static/dynamic) and by the qualification of the sending client. In summary, 'accuracy' aspects and the meaning of equipment quality' achieved the highest ratings, whereas political, structural or geographical criteria were given a secondary importance. Considering the average ratings of criteria, the highest ratings are at 3,7 (3,6 at users; 3,8 at non-users) and the lowest at 2,4 (2,7 at users and 2,3 at non-users). Consequently, all regarded criteria have an impact on telepathology's success. The final relevance of a criteria is strongly dependent on the specific situation of a pathologist and the desired service being introduced.