A systematic review of the methodologies used to evaluate telemedicine service initiatives in hospital facilities

Our systematic review identified only 137 telemedicine services. This suggests either telemedicine service implementation is still not a part of mainstream clinical services, or it is not being reported in the peer-reviewed literature. The depth and the quality of information were variable across studies, reducing the generalisability. The reporting of service implementation and planning strategies should be encouraged. Given the fast paced technology driven environment of telemedicine, this may enable others to learn and understand how to implement sustainable services. The key component of planning was underreported in these studies. Studies applying and reporting more rigorous methodology would contribute greatly to the evidence for telemedicine.