During the pandemic, healthcare organisations have embraced remote patient-to-provider communication methods, including asynchronous consultations. An outpatient asynchronous consultation allows a patient to communicate online with a hospital's nurse or doctor without being available at the same time. HSRU researchers, in collaboration with colleagues from NHS Grampian and public partners, undertook a study focused on the staff, patient experiences, and the public's readiness for these outpatient consultations in Grampian. Mike Melvin from ACVO, a public contributor and co-investigator, shares his personal journey of involvement in this project.
“It was fantastic to be part of the ACORN research team which considered asynchronous consultations in the NHS. The research has produced significant findings that are of great relevance and interest (e.g.: for the NHS, to public health, policymakers, researchers, academics, the general public). The research has further made an important contribution to advancing knowledge, understanding and shaping digital responses for healthcare. I also greatly enjoyed being part of the team, bringing a public perspective, the tremendous collaboration that the research involved – University of Aberdeen/HSRU, NHS Grampian, public/community engagement and involvement. The research has made (and continues to make) a real difference. I have learnt so much during my involvement with this research as well and I would likewise encourage anyone to get involved in future research - public input is always vital for research and greatly appreciated."
My Motivation to Get Involved
It's not just about technology; it's about people. That's what drew me to this implementation research project aimed at transforming healthcare within the NHS in the Northeast of Scotland. Witnessing how COVID-19 changed the world by accelerating the use of technology, I saw firsthand the potential benefits it brought to healthcare accessibility. During the pandemic, my own elderly mum, used video consultations to access medical care conveniently, highlighting the significance of this research project in bridging disparities in access to care we face in the Northeast of Scotland.
My Journey with the Project
I was in it from the start when clinicians from Aberdeen Royal Infirmary were planning to introduce asynchronous appointments. The researchers from HSRU, with whom I have been collaborating for years, asked me to join in the drafting of the proposal we were awarded. I have been part of the project team since. We engaged with individuals facing digital exclusion, integrating their valuable insights into the research process. I helped with accessing those groups and co-facilitated discussions and am actively contributing to dissemination efforts. My favourite aspects include helping co-facilitate great discussions in the community, being part of a dedicated project/research team, and contributing to important research that makes a real difference for people, the community and healthcare.
Making an Impact: From Research to Real Life
Using my community connections, I advocated for the seldom-heard groups and guided the research team on effective communication strategies. My unique insights, as someone embedded in the community, brought depth and relevance to the project. Following this project, we applied for another small grant to explore the issue of digital exclusion in our community. This concern was raised in our public focus groups, which shows that I am having an impact on research priorities. But it doesn't end there; my personal learnings fuel my determination to champion equitable and inclusive digital health.
Spreading the Word: Every Voice Matters
Dissemination matters and I had the chance to co-author an article, record a presentation for a conference, and even invite the project researcher to a community radio program at SHMU FM https://www.abdn.ac.uk/hsru/news/22063/. These efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness about the potential of asynchronous consultations. By sharing my story, I aim to connect, inspire, and drive others toward similar research endeavours.
The Bigger Picture: Building an Inclusive Future
This research project is about more than just harnessing the power of technological innovation, which comes with its own set of benefits and challenges. It's a concerted effort to make sure that digital interventions, designed to enhance accessibility, truly accomplish their intended goals. It's about not only embracing the digital age but doing so in a way that doesn't leave anyone behind or overburden the devoted NHS staff. The mission is clear: to pave a path towards inclusive healthcare that fully recognises the human dimension.
Here you can find out more about the ACORN study: ACORN: Asynchronous Consultation Research for the NHS | Projects A-Z | Health Services Research Unit | The University of Aberdeen (abdn.ac.uk)
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