| Abstract [eng] |
The digital transformation in the context of veterinary telemedicine is a crucial process that is changing the ways veterinary care and animal health services are delivered. This transformation is based on the introduction of new information technologies to improve services, optimize diagnostics and treatment, and efficiently manage veterinary practices. Unlike in other countries, only 1.32 percent of veterinary clinics in Lithuania have implemented digital transformation in the context of veterinary telemedicine, offering a paid service of remote veterinary consultations on their websites. A rare clinic recognizes the benefits of telemedicine. By utilizing telemedicine, it is possible not only to ensure timely access to veterinary services but also to assist the clinic in digitizing and optimizing processes. It is observed that there is still a lack of information on the model that should guide digital transformation within an organization to successfully integrate telemedicine, create added value, maintain existing users, and attract new users of remote services. The aim of the study is to identify the success factors of digital transformation in veterinary clinics that enable the digital transformation of services through the integration of remote veterinary services and the creation of added value. The object of the study: Factors enabling the success of digital transformation in veterinary clinics. Research tasks: 1) To uncover problematic aspects of digital transformation in veterinary telemedicine; 2) To substantiate theoretical solutions that promote digital transformation in veterinary telemedicine; 3) Based on the prepared research methodology, to identify factors with the greatest impact on the success of digital transformation in veterinary clinics in the context of veterinary telemedicine; 4) To supplement the theoretical model for successful digital transformation in veterinary clinics based on the results of empirical research. Research methods: Client survey data were recorded in Microsoft Office Excel 2019. Quantitative indicators, distributed according to the normal distribution, are presented as the mean ± standard deviation (SD). Quantitative indicators, distributed according to the non-normal distribution, are presented as the median with the minimum and maximum values. Differences in opinions expressed for statements in client questionnaires (Parts C, D, and E) were evaluated using ANOVA with Fisher's LSD criterion. The distributions of responses and differences in opinions for Part B questions were evaluated using the Chi-square (χ2) test. Relationships between respondents' social characteristics and expressed opinions were evaluated using the Chi-square (χ2) test. Interview responses were processed using the MAXQDA program. Statistical data analysis was performed using the IBM SPSS Statistics® software package, Version 29. Statistically significant differences were considered when p < 0.05. Research results: After conducting the analysis of research data, it was determined that the most crucial success factors in implementing digital transformation in the field of veterinary telemedicine, according to veterinary clinic leaders, include: leadership ensuring the management of digital transformation processes and investments in marketing veterinary telemedicine services; competence and experience of veterinary doctors; convenient post-business hours for clients (i.e., remote consultations conducted after regular working hours), faster service availability, and lower cost. It was found that heads veterinary clinics assess the added value created by remote consultations based on the following indicators: the number of remote consultations, the number of follow-up consultations (clients registering for a follow-up after a remote consultation), optimization of human resources, and the number of visits to the clinic's website. To ensure successful integration of remote veterinary services in veterinary clinics, it is recommended to involve marketing and IT professionals, invest in the specialties, digital, and communication competencies of veterinary doctors within the company, and invest in video and audio equipment as well as professionally designed space for the provision of telemedicine services. |
