Remote participation: rethinking efficient, engaging and accessible education: the utility of video conferencing (VC) increasing reach and participation

An increasing volume of requests sought improved access for higher frequency, accessible workforce educational engagement. Additionally, this need included opportunity for networking and sharing best evidence based practice. A cost efficient mode of engagement was key in operating a programme that could prevail despite challenges of weather/impact on travel and with such a dispersed workforce. RRHEAL established the RRHEAL VC education network, initially for northern islands, but demand required speedy extension to include all the Remote, Rural and Islands workforce teams. The existing NHS Service level Agreement for video conferencing (VC) was used and a cost neutral mode of delivery. Systems for administration, facilitation and speaker preparation were developed. The initial VC education network continues to thrive with a number of specialised developments, supplemental to the initial generalist provision, including:
NHS Highland/ The Acute Diabetic Foot
Remote and Rural General Practitioners
NHS Highland/ Mentalised Behavioural Therapy(MBT) (in development)
The Rural General Hospital

This abstract was presented at the Innovative Solutions in Remote Healthcare - 'Rethinking Remote' conference, 23-24 May 2016, Inverness, Scotland.