Usability and perceptions of a Telementoring Program for young physicians in rural settings of Peru: A mixed method study

Abstract Background: Telementoring seems to be a promising strategy to deliver training and counselling to physicians in remote areas. In Peru, early graduated physicians must work for the Rural and Urban-Edge Health Service Program where they face important training needs. The aim of this study was to describe the usage of a Telementoring program for rural physicians and evaluate the aspects related to the perceptions of acceptability and usability.Methods: Mixed methods study on recently graduated physicians who work in rural areas and participate in the Telementoring program. The program used a mobile application to connect these young doctors with specialized mentors to answer queries about real-life problems raised by working in a rural area. We summarize administrative data to assess participant characteristics and their participation in the program. Additionally, we conducted in-depth interviews to explore the perceived usability, ease of use, and reason for non-use of the Telementoring program.Results: Of 74 physicians (mean age 25, 51.4% women) enrolled, 12 (16.2%) actively used the program and performed a total of 27 queries, which received response in an average time of 5.4 ± 6.3 hours. In the interviews, the main reasons for non-use were connectivity issues, feelings of shame, and self-efficacy. For those who used the Telementoring program they referred it was easy to use and solve their inquiries timely. Conclusions:The implementation of a Telementoring program sought to provide guidance to recently graduated physicians working in rural areas. Low use rates show that administrative and process-related deficiencies in the program implementation need to be improved.