Abstract:
Abstract
Background: Tele-surgery has become helpful in overcoming today’s shortage of
surgeons and eliminates geographical barriers that prevent timely and high-quality
surgical intervention, financial burden, complications, and often risky long-distance
travel. However, knowledge and attitude remained challenges of implementation.
Objective: This study aimed to assess physician’s knowledge and attitude towards
tele-surgery and associated factors at Referral hospitals in Amhara Region.
Methodology: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423
physicians. Each study participant was selected using a systematic random
sampling technique. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires. We
computed descriptive statistics to estimate knowledge and attitudes on tele-surgery.
Whereas, bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression were computed to identify
factors associated with knowledge and attitude towards tele-surgery.
Result: The study shown that 197(48.3 %), (95% CI 43.4-52.9) physicians have
good knowledge and 179(43.9%), (95% CI 39.7-48.7) have good attitude towards
tele-surgery. Being a resident physician (AOR=2.371, 95% CI: 1.522, 3.698),
ophthalmologists (AOR=0.259, 95% CI=0.089, 0.755), working in OPD (AOR=0.258
95%CI=0.098, 0.680) perception on training (AOR=3.704, 95% CI= 1.345, 10.201),
trained staff availability (AOR=2.506, 95% CI=1.257, 4.996) were associated with
physician’s knowledge. While, less experienced (AOR = 0.471, 95% CI = 0.2310.959),
knowledgeable
(AOR=2.109,
95%
CI:1.298-3.426),
confidence
(AOR=2.130,
95%CI=1.214-3.740),
computer access (AOR=4.056, 95%CI=1.326-12.402) were
associated with attitude towards tele-surgery.
Conclusion: Physician’s knowledge and attitude towards tele-surgery was low.
Education level, specialization, working department, and training were determinants
of knowledge. While, experience, knowledge, confidence, and access to computer
were determinants of physician’s attitude towards tele-surgery.
Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Tele-Surgery
