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January 25, 2026Open Access

Participatory development of an evaluation and data model for teleconsultations in long-term care: study protocol based on the MRC framework

Puntos clave

The central aim is to develop an evaluation model for teleconsultations in long-term care settings to assess feasibility and impacts.
Conducting seven teleconsultation projects with a mixed-methods design
Collecting data on usage patterns and user acceptance via standardized instruments
Performing qualitative analyses through focus groups and interviews
Utilizing descriptive and inferential statistical methods for quantitative data
Implementing a cost-consequence analysis to evaluate economic impacts.
Data will provide insights into the feasibility of teleconsultations in long-term care
User acceptance metrics will inform on technology adaptation
Qualitative feedback will illustrate caregiver experiences and challenges
The outcome aims to guide future telemedical care practices in nursing.

Resumen

Introduction Demographic change is resulting in a growing number of individuals requiring nursing care, while the availability of professional caregivers is simultaneously declining. This imbalance places increasing pressure on care provision, particularly in home settings and rural areas. Primary care services are also under pressure. Digital solutions such as teleconsultations are considered promising strategies to support intersectoral collaboration in long-term care and to mitigate existing gaps in service provision. Methods and analysis Seven teleconsultation projects in long-term care are being conducted using a mixed-methods design aligned with the phases of the Medical Research Council framework: with a focus on the feasibility phase. Data on structural conditions, usage patterns and user acceptance will be collected through standardised instruments (including Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology and Fit between Individuals, Task and Technology). In addition, focus groups and interviews will be carried out. The quantitative analysis will include descriptive and inferential statistical methods and will be complemented by a cost–consequence analysis. The qualitative data will be analysed using structuring content analysis. The aim is to provide a context-informed and theory-informed assessment of the implementation and potential impact of telemedical consultations. Ethics and dissemination The study has been approved by the Ethics Committee in Tübingen. Participation is voluntary and based on written informed consent. Data protection is ensured in accordance with the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation); all data are pseudonymised and processed separately. Results will be communicated in a target group-appropriate manner and published in scientific journals. Practice-oriented recommendations will be developed to support the further advancement of telemedical care in nursing.

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