Telerehabilitation for COPD patients across sectors: Using technology to promote cooperation among healthcare professionals

Abstract

A telerehabilitation programme for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary lung disease has been developed. Aim: The aim of the paper is to explore how telerehabilitation technology influences cooperation and coordination between healthcare professionals in the Telekat network. Theory: Network theory has been applied. Methods: A triangulation of data collection techniques such as documentary materials, participant observations (n=163 hours), and qualitative interviews (n=24) has been used in a case study of the Telekat project. Findings: Telerehabilitation technologies influences cooperation and coordination between healthcare professionals in themes like: interdisciplinary decision making, mutual learning processes and new professional roles. Conclusion: A combination of telerehabilitation technologies is a facilitator for cooperation and coordination between healthcare professionals in a network. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.