CoChat
Sign Up
Cited by 336Telemedicine and Telehealth ImplementationTechnology Use by Older AdultsHealth Literacy and Information Accessibility

Telehealth Interventions Delivering Home-based Support Group Videoconferencing: Systematic Review

Open access
Banbury, Annie, Nancarrow, Susan, Dart, Jared, Gray, Leonard, Parkinson, Lynne·2018·Journal of Medical Internet Research
DOI 10.2196/jmir.8090PMC PMC5816261

Published version of a preprint

Open this paper in CoChat — free account

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Group therapy and education and support sessions are used within health care across a range of disciplines such as chronic disease self-management and psychotherapy interventions. However, there are barriers that constrain group attendance, such as mobility, time, and distance. Using videoconferencing may overcome known barriers and improve the accessibility of group-based interventions. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review the literature to determine the feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, and implementation of health professional-led group videoconferencing to provide education or social support or both, into the home setting. METHODS: Electronic databases were searched using predefined search terms for primary interventions for patient education and/or social support. The quality of studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We developed an analysis framework using hierarchical terms feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, and implementation, which were informed by subheadings. RESULTS: Of the 1634 records identified, 17 were included in this review. Home-based groups by videoconferencing are feasible even for those with limited digital literacy. Overall acceptability was high with access from the home highly valued and little concern of privacy issues. Some participants reported preferring face-to-face groups. Good information technology (IT) support and training is required for facilitators and participants. Communication can be adapted for the Web environment and would be enhanced by clear communication strategies and protocols. A range of improved outcomes were reported but because of the heterogeneity of studies, comparison of these across studies was not possible. There was a trend for improvement in mental health outcomes. Benefits highlighted in the qualitative data included engaging with others with similar problems; improved accessibility to groups; and development of health knowledge, insights, and skills. Videoconference groups were able to replicate group processes such as bonding and cohesiveness. Similar outcomes were reported for those comparing face-to-face groups and videoconference groups. CONCLUSIONS: Groups delivered by videoconference are feasible and potentially can improve the accessibility of group interventions. This may be particularly useful for those who live in rural areas, have limited mobility, are socially isolated, or fear meeting new people. Outcomes are similar to in-person groups, but future research on facilitation process in videoconferencing-mediated groups and large-scale studies are required to develop the evidence base.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This systematic review found that health professional–led group videoconferencing delivered into the home is feasible and highly acceptable, with good attendance and little privacy concern. Evidence on effectiveness is limited by heterogeneous, mostly small studies, though there is a trend toward improved mental health outcomes and outcomes similar to in-person groups.

Key findings

  • Of 1634 records identified, 17 publications (15 studies; two studies reported in four papers) were included; sample sizes ranged from 4 to 117, with 467 participants contributing to 15 studies.
  • Home-based videoconference groups were feasible even for those with limited digital literacy; overall acceptability was high, attendance ranged from 66% to 93.8%, and 6 studies reported rates >80%.
  • Good IT support and training were required for facilitators and participants; audio difficulties were the most common technical problem, and communication benefited from clear guidelines and protocols.
  • Outcomes were heterogeneous and could not be compared across studies, but there was a trend for improved mental health outcomes; one high-quality RCT reported significantly better HRQoL (P=.03) and lower depression scores (P=.02) versus usual care 1 year after bariatric surgery.

Methods

  • Systematic review of primary intervention studies published January 2000 to March 2016, searching multiple electronic databases and gray literature for health professional–led group videoconferencing providing education and/or social support into the home for adults aged 18 years or older.
  • Quality was assessed with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool; 9 studies were high quality and 6 low quality.
  • Data were extracted using a framework of feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, and implementation, then synthesized narratively; meta-analysis was not appropriate because of heterogeneity and limited quantitative studies.

Limitations

  • The paper states that comparability was limited by heterogeneity of interventions, participants, and outcomes; sample sizes were small; and separate findings for videoconferencing-only components could not be identified when interventions included other elements.
  • The paper states that different measurement tools for the same outcome, such as depression, prevented comparison of effectiveness, and limiting eligibility to home-delivered groups may have introduced bias.
  • The text itself reports inconsistent totals—17 publications included versus 15 studies meeting inclusion criteria—which complicates interpretation of the evidence base.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.2196/jmir.8090

Cites

77 of 77 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 168 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Findingnone given

    Groups delivered by videoconference are feasible.

    “Groups delivered by videoconference are feasible”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Findingnone given

    Videoconference groups were able to replicate group processes such as bonding and cohesiveness.

    “Videoconference groups were able to replicate group processes such as bonding and cohesiveness.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Access from the home was highly valued by participants.

    “with access from the home highly valued”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Overall acceptability of group videoconferencing was high.

    “Overall acceptability was high with access from the home highly valued and little concern of privacy issues.”
    • Also stated in: § Acceptability · plain
      “Overall, patient satisfaction with group videoconferencing was high.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Benefits highlighted in the qualitative data included engaging with others with similar problems.

    “Benefits highlighted in the qualitative data included engaging with others with similar problems; improved accessibility to groups; and development of health knowledge, insights, and skills.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims. 45
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 32

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    All studies included results on feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness, and some reported issues connected with implementation.

    “All studies included results on feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness, and some reported issues connected with implementation [33,36-38,40-44,47].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 10 sources checked
    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [37] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [38] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [40] Marziali, E, 2006, Gerontologist source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [41] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [43] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [47] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    There were 9 high-quality studies and 6 of low quality.

    “There were 9 high-quality studies and 6 of low quality.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Attendance rates ranged from 66% to 93.8%, with 6 studies reporting groups with rates of >80%.

    “Attendance rates ranged from 66% to 93.8%, with 6 studies reporting groups with rates of >80% [32,35,36,46,47].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [32] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [35] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [47] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Adherence rates were very good, with homework completed 93% of the time and all participants viewing educational videos and completing health diaries.

    “Adherence rates were very good, with homework completed 93% of the time [46] and all participants viewing educational videos and completing health diaries [34,35].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [34] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [35] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Good technical support was considered an important element for an intervention, which could ease participants' anxiety.

    “Good technical support was considered an important element for an intervention, which could ease participants’ anxiety [31].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [31] Adamski, T, 2009, Caring

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Overall, inexperience with videoconferencing or computer use did not appear to be a major problem; the majority of studies reported that over time participants found the technology easy to use and enjoyable.

    “Overall, inexperience did not appear to be a major problem as the majority of studies reported that, over time, participants found the technology easy to use [32-35,40-42,46] and found videoconferencing enjoyable [42,44-46].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 10 sources checked
    • cites [32] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [34] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [35] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [40] Marziali, E, 2006, Gerontologist source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [41] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [45] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    The duration of group videoconferencing meetings ranged from 45 min to 105 min, typically lasting for 1 hour.

    “The duration of group videoconferencing meetings ranged from 45 min to 105 min, typically lasting for 1 hour.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Overall attendance at the videoconferencing groups was high, with few dropouts.

    “Overall, attendance at the videoconferencing groups was high, with few dropouts.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingcitation

    Viewing the participant's home environment could increase tailored education and support.

    “Conversely, viewing the participant’s home environment could increase tailored education and support.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingcitation

    One study reported that poor digital literacy may have contributed to low participation rates.

    “One study, in which a third of participants had a degree, reported that poor digital literacy may have contributed to low participation rates [37]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [37] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Eight of the 15 studies reported few technical difficulties, whereas 7 reported a number of problems, 2 of which required substantial work hours to overcome.

    “Various levels of technical problems were encountered; 8 of the 15 studies reported few difficulties [31,32,34-36,38,44-46], whereas 7 reported a number of problems [33,37,39,42,43,45,47], 2 of which required substantial work hours to overcome [39,47].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 10 sources checked
    • cites [31] Adamski, T, 2009, Caring

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [32] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [34] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [35] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [38] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [45] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Over time, the vast majority of participants became familiar with the technology and adapted their communication accordingly.

    “Over time, the vast majority of participants became familiar with the technology and adapted their communication accordingly [33,36,42,46].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    The most common technical problem reported was audio difficulties, including delays, dropouts, and background noise, followed by problems in downloading software.

    “The most common problem reported was audio difficulties, which included delays, dropouts, and background noise [33,37,38,44,45], followed by problems in downloading software [38,42,43].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 7 sources checked
    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [37] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [38] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [45] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [43] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Reasons for participants dropping out or nonattendance included technical problems, not liking to talk about their health, too busy, and illness.

    “Reasons for participants dropping out or nonattendance included technical problems, not liking to talk about their health, too busy, and illness.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    For comparative studies, changes in pre- and postintervention results were similar for face-to-face groups and usual care but significantly better than a text-based forum.

    “For comparative studies, changes in pre- and postintervention results were similar for face-to-face groups [31,38] and usual care [47] but significantly better than a text-based forum [43].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [31] Adamski, T, 2009, Caring

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [38] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [47] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [43] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Qualitative studies reported discussion themes that illustrated participants' ability to discuss sensitive and personal issues and to give and receive empathetic support.

    “Qualitative studies reported discussion themes that illustrated participants’ ability to discuss sensitive and personal issues and to give and receive empathetic support [33,36,42,44,45].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [45] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Engaging with others who were experiencing similar problems was highly valued and enabled empathic connections to develop.

    “Engaging with others who were experiencing similar problems was highly valued and enabled empathic connections to develop.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingnone given

    Health knowledge, insight, and skills were developed through didactic teaching methods, discussion, sharing experiences, asking and listening to questions, self-reflection, and books.

    “Health knowledge, insight, and skills were developed through didactic teaching methods, discussion, sharing experiences, asking and listening to questions, self-reflection, and books (available on an e-reader).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Validity was demonstrated through the analysis of discussion themes and was consistent with the face-to-face groups.

    “Validity was demonstrated through the analysis of discussion themes such as cohesiveness, empathic support, problem solving, or issues in disease-specific caregiver literature and was consistent with the face-to-face groups [36,38,40-42].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [38] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [40] Marziali, E, 2006, Gerontologist source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [41] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingreasoning

    The ability to meet from one's home was viewed positively and helped overcome a number of barriers that would have prohibited attendance at a face-to-face group for some participants.

    “The ability to meet from one’s home was viewed positively and helped overcome a number of barriers that, for some participants, would have prohibited their attendance at a face-to-face group.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Videoconferencing groups reduced feelings of anxiety, isolation, and loneliness.

    “Videoconferencing groups helped reduced feelings of anxiety, isolation, and loneliness [36,39,42,44]”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [39] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingcitation

    Gender differences were noted in a study comprising one group of men and one of women.

    “Gender differences were noted in a study comprising one group of men and one of women, with the men’s discussions being more problem-focused and the women’s being more emotion-focused [44,45].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [45] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingcitation

    Information that was available on websites was accessed at the beginning of the intervention but much less so as the intervention continued.

    “Information that was available on websites was accessed at the beginning of the intervention but much less so as the intervention continued [37,39].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [37] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [39] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Bonding and cohesiveness were reported in all high-quality studies and in one low-quality study.

    “Bonding and cohesiveness were reported in all high-quality studies and in one low-quality study [40,41].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [40] Marziali, E, 2006, Gerontologist source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [41] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Some participants reported feeling more relaxed and open by being at home and valued the convenience.

    “some participants reported feeling more relaxed and open by being at home and valued the convenience [33,34,36,42-46].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 8 sources checked
    • cites [33] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [34] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [36] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [42] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [43] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [44] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [45] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingcitation

    Difficulty in retrieving online assessments and evaluation forms were reported.

    “Difficulty in retrieving online assessments and evaluation forms were reported [31,37].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [31] Adamski, T, 2009, Caring

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [37] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Videoconferencing groups were similar to face-to-face groups and usual care.

    “Compared with other modes of delivery, videoconferencing groups were significantly better than a text-based forum and similar to face-to-face groups and usual care.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Clear communication guidelines and strategies appeared to have helped overcome some technical difficulties and aid effectiveness of the interventions.

    “Clear communication guidelines and strategies appeared to have helped overcome some technical difficulties and aid effectiveness of the interventions [70].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [70] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingnone given

    The review includes studies implemented from 2006 to 2015.

    “The review includes studies implemented from 2006 to 2015.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    A consistent finding was the perception that groups enabled engagement and social support, which was highly rated by participants.

    “A consistent finding was the perception that groups enabled engagement and social support, which was highly rated by participants.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Studies that implemented existing psychoeducational interventions reported good reliability and validity and were as effective as face-to-face interventions.

    “Studies that implemented existing psychoeducational interventions reported good reliability and validity and were as effective as face-to-face interventions.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingreasoning

    Exposure into people's homes was not a concern.

    “Exposure into people’s homes was not a concern; in fact, it can help target interventions to be more context specific.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    At present, interventions that have used mHealth are limited.

    “At present, interventions that have used mHealth are limited.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Videoconferencing groups can provide sustained mental health outcomes, as demonstrated by Wild, with their follow-up study reporting significantly lower depression and higher self-efficacy approximately 2 years following their group videoconferencing intervention.

    “Furthermore, videoconferencing groups can provide sustained mental health outcomes, as demonstrated by Wild [78], with their follow-up study reporting significantly lower depression and higher self-efficacy approximately 2 years following their group videoconferencing intervention.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [78] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    The effectiveness of interventions varied, although there was a trend to improvement for participants with mental health problems.

    “The effectiveness of interventions varied, although there was a trend to improvement for participants with mental health problems.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Group videoconferences into the home are feasible but need good IT support.

    “Group videoconferences into the home are feasible but need good IT support.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Videoconferencing systems were most commonly used with desktop computers, which most studies provided for the participants.

    “Videoconferencing systems were most commonly used with desktop computers, which most studies provided for the participants.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductnone given

    Quality assessment was conducted independently by AB and LP, with differences of opinions discussed with SN.

    “Quality assessment was conducted independently by AB and LP, with differences of opinions discussed with SN.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductcitation

    The quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

    “The quality of studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.”
    • Also stated in: § Quality Assessments of Included Studies · plain
      “Quality assessment of identified studies was completed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) [26] as 7 of the 14 included studies had used mixed-methods study designs.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [26] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Using home-based videoconferencing may be one opportunity to reduce known barriers and improve accessibility of group-based interventions.

    “Using home-based videoconferencing may be one opportunity to reduce these known barriers and improve the accessibility of group-based interventions.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A systematic review on the effectiveness of online health behavior change interventions concluded that although most studies report improvements, effect sizes range widely and were generally small in magnitude.

    “a systematic review on the effectiveness of online health behavior change interventions concluded that although most studies report improvements, effect sizes range widely and were generally small in magnitude [8].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [8] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Videoconferencing has been used in a range of medical disciplines but is still not widely adopted, and research focus to date has been on individual patient consultations.

    “Although videoconferencing has been used in a range of medical disciplines, it is still not widely adopted, and the research focus to date has been on using videoconferencing for individual patient consultations [13].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [13] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Groups are beneficial as they provide opportunities to meet others with similar health issues, learn from peers, develop self-awareness, give and receive feedback, and recognize shared challenges that can lead to more success with self-management.

    “Groups are beneficial as they provide opportunities to meet others with similar health issues or in similar circumstances, learn from peers, develop self-awareness, give and receive feedback, and recognize that others share comparable challenges that can lead to more success with self-management [1].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [1] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    Communication would be enhanced by clear communication strategies and protocols.

    “would be enhanced by clear communication strategies and protocols”
    • Also stated in: § Acceptability · plain
      “It was acknowledged that structure and protocols are needed to optimize group communication [35].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [35] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductown data

    Potential eligible studies were identified by author AB scanning all 1634 titles; AB and LP independently conducted an abstract review of 606 remaining studies and a full-text review of 79 studies; the third author SN resolved uncertainty.

    “Potential eligible studies were identified by author AB scanning all 1634 titles. Authors AB and LP independently conducted an abstract review of the 606 remaining studies followed by a full-text review of 79 studies for final inclusion.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductown data

    The PRISMA flowchart was used to represent the study selection process.

    “The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) [25] flowchart representing the study selection process is shown in Figure 1.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [25] Moher, D, 2009, Br Med J source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Online support groups can be asynchronous or synchronous, providing a range of therapeutic benefits similar to face-to-face support groups.

    “Online support groups can be asynchronous or synchronous, providing a range of therapeutic benefits that are similar to face-to-face support groups [10,11]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [10] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [11] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool has met validity and reliability standards.

    “The MMAT has met validity and reliability standards [27]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [27] National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools20150320Hamilton, ONMcMaster UniversityAppraising Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Studies included in Mixed Studies Reviews: The MMAThttp://www.nccmt.ca/resources/search/232

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductcitation

    Meta-analysis of quantitative data was inappropriate because of the heterogeneity of studies and the limited number of quantitative studies.

    “The heterogeneous nature of the studies and the limited number of quantitative studies meant that a meta-analysis of quantitative data was inappropriate [59].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [59] DeeksJHigginsJAltmanDhandbook.cochrane200903202017-03-02Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions http://handbook.cochrane.org/part_2_general_methods_for_cochrane_reviews.htm

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A review containing two studies concluded that conducting group therapy by videoconferencing is as feasible and effective as an in-person group and that technology increased access to services but did not forgo the change mechanisms in group therapy.

    “A review containing two studies concluded that conducting group therapy by videoconferencing is as feasible and effective as an in-person group and that technology increased access to services but did not forgo the change mechanisms in group therapy [24].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [24] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Videoconference groups may be particularly useful for those who live in rural areas, have limited mobility, are socially isolated, or fear meeting new people.

    “This may be particularly useful for those who live in rural areas, have limited mobility, are socially isolated, or fear meeting new people.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Diabetes education often uses group settings to reduce pressure on health staff resources given increasing numbers of people diagnosed with diabetes.

    “For instance, diabetes education often uses group settings to reduce the pressure on health staff resources given the increasing numbers of people diagnosed with diabetes [4].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [4] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    Good information technology support and training is required for facilitators and participants.

    “Good information technology (IT) support and training is required for facilitators and participants.”
    • Also stated in: § Feasibility · hedged
      “Good technical support was considered an important element for an intervention, which could ease participants’ anxiety [31].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [31] Adamski, T, 2009, Caring

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Within psychotherapy, group treatment provides crucial therapeutic elements such as universality, group cohesiveness, and interpersonal learning, all of which promote positive individual outcomes.

    “Within the field of psychotherapy, group treatment provides crucial therapeutic elements such as universality, group cohesiveness, and interpersonal learning, all of which promote positive individual outcomes [2].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2] Yalom, I, 2005, The Theory and Practice of Group Therapy

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Barriers for participants to attending groups include mobility-reducing physical health issues, time constraints, distance, insufficient funds, lack of respite care, and transportation.

    “Reasons for nonparticipation include mobility-reducing physical health issues, time constraints, distance, insufficient funds, lack of respite care if caring for someone else, and transportation [3].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [3] Galinsky, MJ, 1997, Health Soc Work source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductcitation

    Using two groups to compare results is intended to provide greater validity for quantitative data and trustworthiness for qualitative data.

    “Using two groups to compare results is intended to provide greater validity for quantitative data and trustworthiness for qualitative data [55].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [55] PluyePmixedmethodsappraisaltoolpublic2016Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool Public http://mixedmethodsappraisaltoolpublic.pbworks.com/w/page/24607821/FrontPage

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Online education and behavior change interventions have reported improvements in health outcomes.

    “online education and behavior change interventions have reported improvements in health outcomes [9,12]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [9] source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [12] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    Structure and protocols are needed to optimize group communication.

    “It was acknowledged that structure and protocols are needed to optimize group communication [35].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [35] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Education level is not necessarily associated with digital literacy.

    “suggesting that education level is not necessarily associated with digital literacy”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    The delay in feeling at ease may have been related to the online environment.

    “which may have been related to the online environment [46]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [46] source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductreasoning

    Limiting study eligibility to health intervention videoconferencing groups delivered to the home rather than to another setting may have produced bias.

    “Limiting study eligibility to health intervention videoconferencing groups delivered to the home rather than to another setting may have produced bias.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The benefits of being able to take part in a group from home often outweigh the frustration of IT problems.

    “The benefits of being able to take part in a group from home often outweigh the frustration of IT problems.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    There is an indication that groups via videoconferencing may provide a new avenue to either kick-start new self-help groups or sustain existing groups.

    “There is an indication that groups via videoconferencing may provide a new avenue to either kick-start new self- help groups or sustain existing groups.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    Cost savings to the health provider can be made by educating a number of people simultaneously, more efficient use of clinical time, and it may even reduce the numbers of nonattendance.

    “Cost savings to the health provider can be made by educating a number of people simultaneously, more efficient use of clinical time, and it may even reduce the numbers of nonattendance [81].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [81] Chan, KC, 2012, Stud Health Technol Inform

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Videoconferencing may provide educators with an additional understanding of contextual issues for clients, which may lead to a more patient-centered health intervention.

    “Videoconferencing may provide educators with an additional understanding of contextual issues for clients, which may lead to a more patient-centered health intervention.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationreasoning

    IT support is a key resource consideration for organizations proposing to use group videoconferencing interventions with clients.

    “IT support is a key resource consideration for organizations proposing to use group videoconferencing interventions with clients.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Videoconferencing groups could be used to develop new and relatively low-cost interventions, particularly with at-risk groups such as those living in rural areas, with limited mobility and older people.

    “Videoconferencing groups could be used to develop new and relatively low-cost interventions, particularly with at-risk groups such as those living in rural areas, with limited mobility and older people.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationreasoning

    It is not unreasonable to conclude that, in time, the use of group videoconferencing will become mainstream.

    “Therefore, it is not unreasonable to conclude that, in time, the use of group videoconferencing will become mainstream.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
68 of 68

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    No previous reviews have identified factors affecting implementation and outcomes of group-based education by videoconferencing.

    “However, no previous reviews have identified factors affecting implementation and outcomes of group-based education by videoconferencing.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The outcome terms feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness were often used in the included studies, but there were no consistent definitions.

    “The outcome terms of feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness were often used in the included studies, but there were no consistent definitions.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Studies that have delivered group videoconferencing into the home as opposed to a community health care setting are less common.

    “In particular, studies that have delivered group videoconferencing into the home as opposed to a community health care setting are less common.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Ownership of mobile devices and access to the Internet will continue to grow.

    “As ownership of mobile devices and access to the Internet grows”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Technology will continue to advance rapidly.

    “the rapid advancement of technology suggests that technical difficulties will decrease”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Telehealth is an emerging field.

    “Telehealth is an emerging field”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    People's use of health care services increases as they age.

    “As people age, their use of health care services increases”
7 of 7

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Methods gives a different total of included studies

    Minor

    The quality-assessment section says there were 14 included studies, but the discussion says 15 met the inclusion criteria.

  • Figure 2 is described as the study-selection diagram

    Minor

    Figure 2 is captioned as the analysis framework, not a summary of study selection.

  • Analysis framework is attributed to Figure 1

    Minor

    The text points to Figure 1 for the analysis framework, but Figure 1 is captioned as the study-selection flow diagram.

  • Mixed-methods study count changes from seven to nine

    Minor

    The methods section reports seven included mixed-methods studies, while the results section reports nine.

  • Study-design counts total 16 rather than 15 studies

    Minor

    The reported numbers of mixed-methods, qualitative, and quantitative studies add to 16, whereas the review states that it included 15 studies.

    Reported 15 · recomputed 16

  • Database-search results are attributed to the wrong table

    Minor

    The text directs readers to Table 2 for database-search results, but Table 2 is the quality assessment. The database retrieval counts appear in Table 4.

6 of 6

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 7

  1. Taylor, DM, 2012, Rural Remote Health, 12, 1947
  2. Adamski, T, 2009, Caring, 28, 44
  3. Hebert, M, 2001, Stud Health Technol Inform, 84, 1145
  4. Jamieson-ProctorRRedmondPZagamiJAlbionPTwiningPRedefining education for the digital age: a snapshot of the state of play in three Queensland schoolsThe ACEC2014 Now IT’s Personal2014Australian Computers in Education Conference 2014September 30 - October 3Adelaide
  5. 10.3310/hsdr02530.PMID: · DOI · Paper page
  6. Rogers, A, 2008, Med J Aust, 189, S21
  7. Chan, KC, 2012, Stud Health Technol Inform, 182, 52

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Related

Authors
Banbury, A., Nancarrow, S., Dart, J., Gray, L., & Parkinson, L.
Affiliations
  • Southern Cross University (AU)
  • Bond University (AU)
  • Central Queensland University (AU)
Corresponding author
Banbury, Annie
ORCID
Venue
Journal of Medical Internet Research
Publisher
JMIR Publications Inc.
Published
2018-02-02
Volume
20
Issue
2
Pages
e25
ISSN
1438-8871 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.2196/jmir.8090
PMC
PMC5816261
OpenAlex
W2786860648
Semantic Scholar
42f235ea4a1a80ef90910aad7e2f6f308837041a
Cited by
336
References
77
Citations by year
2026: 21 · 2025: 37 · 2024: 41 · 2023: 68 · 2022: 55 · 2021: 48 · 2020: 46 · 2019: 16 · 2018: 4
FWCI
5.17
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
cc-by
Locations
  • Journal of Medical Internet Research (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • Acquire (CQUniversity) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
  • Cross Connect (Southern Cross University) (submittedVersion)
  • Figshare (submittedVersion, cc-by)
  • NOVA (University of Newcastle Australia) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
  • NOVA (University of Newcastle Australia) (submittedVersion, other-oa)
Funders
  • Australian Government
  • Central Queensland University
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Telemedicine and Telehealth Implementation
  • Social Sciences › Demography › Technology Use by Older Adults
  • Health Sciences › Health Professions › General Health Professions › Health Literacy and Information Accessibility
Keywords
telemedicine, videoconferencing, group therapy, social support, patient education, feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, implementation, digital literacy, rural population, social isolation, mental health outcomes
MeSH terms
Humans, Self-Help Groups, Social Support, Telemedicine, Videoconferencing

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-06.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-06.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review