Bridging Distances: A Retrospective Study of Virtual Wound Care to Reduce Travel Burden in Rural Healthcare

Introduction: This study assessed the Virtual Wound Consultancy Service (VWCS) in reducing travel burden and lowering travel costs for rural patients requiring wound care. With one-third of Australians in regional or remote areas facing limited healthcare access, this study examined how virtual care could overcome geographical barriers, focusing on travel time and cost.

Methods: A retrospective analysis compared service utilisation and travel savings between patients using the VWCS and those receiving traditional in-person care. Data from chronic wound patients across inpatient, outpatient and residential aged-care settings in a large rural health district (July 2018 to March 2024) were reviewed. Key outcomes included travel time, travel costs and travel distance.

Methods: A retrospective analysis compared service utilisation and travel savings between patients using the VWCS and those receiving traditional in-person care. Data from chronic wound patients across inpatient, outpatient and residential aged-care settings in a large rural health district (July 2018 to March 2024) were reviewed. Key outcomes included travel time, travel costs and travel distance.

Results: The VWCS significantly reduced travel burdens. Patients living more than 201km from specialist centres saved an average of 444min per round trip. Financially, patients saved up to AU$507.49 per trip, with the highest savings for those farthest away. The VWCS also provided timely access to wound care, with an average wait time of 3.7days from referral to consultation. Most services involved audio/visual assessments (40%), case management (27.5%) and email consultations (18%). Over the study period, the VWCS serviced 384 patients, averaging 2.6 consultations per patient.

Conclusion: The VWCS significantly improves access to wound care for rural populations by reducing the time burden. These results support expanding virtual care models in rural areas. Future research should assess long-term clinical outcomes and refine virtual care delivery for greater quality and cost-effectiveness.