KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF ANESTHETISTS TOWARDS TELEHEALTH IN RWANDA

Background: Limited anesthetic capacity, including shortages of trained providers and equipment, contributes significantly to preventable deaths from surgical conditions in low-income countries. Telehealth has the potential to improve access to specialist support and enhance surgical care. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of anesthesia practitioners toward telehealth in Rwanda. Methods: A quantitative Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among anesthetists in Rwanda. Participants were recruited through the Rwanda Allied Health Professionals Council using a census sampling approach between 6 March and 7 May 2024. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05 at a 95% confidence level. Findings: Among respondents, 67.05% demonstrated high knowledge of telehealth, 57.8% had a positive attitude, while only 23.12% exhibited good telehealth practice. Poor practice was significantly associated with lack of telehealth training, lower awareness of telehealth benefits, female gender, and older age groups. Resistance from colleagues and lack of trust in telehealth equipment were not significantly associated with practice levels. Conclusion: Although anesthesia practitioners in Rwanda generally demonstrate adequate knowledge and favorable attitudes toward telehealth, actual utilization remains low. Addressing training gaps and increasing awareness of telehealth benefits may improve adoption and strengthen surgical care delivery.