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Endo Y, Woldesenbet S, Tsilimigras DI, Munir MM, Khalil M, Khan MMM, Altaf A, Rashid Z, Catalano G, Odysseas CP, Pawlik TM. Effect of Telemedicine Use on Medical Spending and Health Care Utilization among Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer. J Gastrointest Surg 2024:S1091-255X(24)00503-1. [PMID: 38901553 DOI: 10.1016/j.gassur.2024.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We sought to assess the impact of telemedicine on healthcare utilization and medical expenditures among patients with a diagnosis of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. METHODS Patients with a newly diagnosed GI cancer from 2013 to 2020 were identified from the IBM MarketScan database. Healthcare utilization, total medical outpatient insurance payments within one-year post-diagnosis, and out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses between telemedicine users and non-users were assessed after propensity score matching (PSM). RESULTS Among 32,677 patients with a GI cancer (esophageal, n=1,862, 5.7%; gastric, n=2,009, 6.1%; liver, n=2,929, 9.0%; bile duct, n=597, 1.8%; pancreas, n=3,083, 9.4%; colorectal, n=22,197, 67.9%), a total of 3,063 (9.7%) utilized telemedicine. After PSM (telemedicine users, n=3,064; non-users, n=3,064), telemedicine users demonstrated a higher frequency of clinic visits (median: 5.0 days, IQR 4.0-7.0 vs. non-users: 2.0 days, IQR 2.0-3.0, p<0.001) and fewer potential days missed from daily activities (median: 7.5 days, IQR 4.5-12.5 vs. non-users: 8.5 days, IQR 5.5-13.5, p<0.001). Total medical spending per month and utilization of emergency room visits for telemedicine users was higher versus non-users (median: $10,658, IQR $5,112-$18,528 vs. non-users: $10,103, IQR $4,628-$16,750; 46.8% vs. 42.6%, both p<0.01), while monthly OOP costs were comparable (median: $273, IQR $137-$449 for telemedicine users vs. non-users: $268, IQR $142-$434, p=0.625). CONCLUSION Telemedicine utilization was associated with increased outpatient clinic visits yet reduced potential days missed from daily activities among patients with GI cancer. Telemedicine users tended to have higher ER visits rate and total medical spending per month, although monthly OOP costs were comparable with non-users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Endo
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Selamawit Woldesenbet
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Diamantis I Tsilimigras
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Muhammad Musaab Munir
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Mujtaba Khalil
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Muhammad Muntazir Mehdi Khan
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Abdullah Altaf
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Zayed Rashid
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Giovanni Catalano
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Chatzipanagiotou P Odysseas
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
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Sánchez-Guillén L, Lillo-García C, Barber X, González-Mora C, Álvarez-Gallego M, Ioannidis A, Clermonts S, Frontali A, Saldaña R, Mayol J, Pellino G. Patients' perception of using telehealth for consultation: insights after pandemic and development of an online calculator platform to predict acceptance of remote consultation: the TELEMED international study. Updates Surg 2024:10.1007/s13304-024-01780-z. [PMID: 38622316 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-024-01780-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a change in healthcare models. The aim of this study was to evaluate patient acceptance of telehealth as an alternative to physical consultations, and to identify factors predicting higher satisfaction. This was an observational, cross-sectional, multi-center, international study. All consecutive patients for whom telehealth was used in consultations between April and July 2020 were considered for inclusion. The validated Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ) was used as a model to measure patient acceptance. Overall, 747 patients were observed, of whom 721 agreed to participate (96·5%). The TUQ showed that 86·9% of patients agreed that telehealth was useful; 85·2% supported the interface quality and 81·4% endorsed the interaction quality. Patients aged > 60 y were less likely to agree with the use of telehealth (p < 0·05). A web-based prediction tool was generated to calculate global satisfaction and to identify patients more likely to feel comfortable with telehealth. Telehealth is feasible and allows consultations that are satisfactory for patients. Technological advancements could ease safe implementation of telehealth into everyday practice. Adequate patient selection can be useful to ensure that the ideal strategy is used for each individual during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Sánchez-Guillén
- Colorectal Unit, Department of General Surgery, Elche University Hospital, Miguel Hernandez University, C/Almazara nº11, 03203, Elche, Alicante, Spain.
| | - Cristina Lillo-García
- Colorectal Unit, Department of General Surgery, Elche University Hospital, Miguel Hernandez University, C/Almazara nº11, 03203, Elche, Alicante, Spain.
| | - Xavier Barber
- Centre of Operations Research, Joint Research Unit UMH-FISABIO (STATSALUT), Miguel Hernandez University, 03202, Elche, Spain
| | - César González-Mora
- Centre of Operations Research, University of Alicante, 03080, Alicante, Spain
| | - Mario Álvarez-Gallego
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, Surgical Department, La Paz University Hospital, 28046, Madrid, Spain
| | - Argyrios Ioannidis
- Department of General, Athens Medical Centre, Laparoscopic, Oncologic and Robotic Surgery, Athens, Greece
| | - Stefan Clermonts
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alice Frontali
- Service de Chirurgie Colorectale, Pôle des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, Hôpital Beaujon, Assistance Publique- Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Université de Paris, 100 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 92118, Clichy Cedex, France
| | - Roberto Saldaña
- European Patients' Academy (EUPATI) Spain, European Federation of Crohn's & Ulcerative Colitis Associations (EFCCA), 1000, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julio Mayol
- Faculty of Medicine, San Carlos Clinic Hospital, San Carlos Health Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gianluca Pellino
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Colorectal Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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Zeineddin S, Macy ML, Bouchard ME, Carroll MS, Linton S, De Boer C, Abdullah F, Ghomrawi H. Disparities in Telemedicine Use Among Children Seen in Surgical Clinics During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Experience of One Tertiary Care Freestanding Children's Hospital. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:642-650. [PMID: 37910777 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine use dramatically increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the effects of telemedicine on pre-existing disparities in pediatric surgical access have not been well described. We describe our center's early experience with telemedicine and disparities in patients' access to outpatient surgical care. Methods: A retrospective study of outpatient visits within all surgical divisions from May to December 2020 was conducted. We assessed the rates of scheduled telemedicine visits during that period, as well as the rate of completing a visit after it has been scheduled. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used to test for associations between these rates and patient characteristics. Results: Over the study period, 109,601 visits were scheduled. Telemedicine accounted for 6.1% of all visits with lower cancellation rates than in-person visits (26.9% vs. 34.7%). More scheduled telemedicine encounters were observed for older patients, White, English speakers, those with private insurance, and those living in rural areas. Lower odds of telemedicine visit completion were observed among patients with public insurance (odds ratio [OR] 0.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64-0.77), Spanish language preference (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72-0.97), and those living in rural areas (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.64-0.84). In contrast, higher odds of telemedicine visit completion were associated with a higher Social Deprivation Index score (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.27-1.58). Telemedicine visit completion was also associated with increasing community-level income and distance from the hospital. Conclusions: Telemedicine use for outpatient surgical care was generally low during the peak of the pandemic, and certain populations were less likely to utilize it. These findings call for further action to bridge gaps in telemedicine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhail Zeineddin
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michelle L Macy
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Megan E Bouchard
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael S Carroll
- Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research and Evaluation Center, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel Linton
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christopher De Boer
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Fizan Abdullah
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hassan Ghomrawi
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Medicine (Rheumatology), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Kassa AM, Nyström N, Waldenvik K, Engstrand Lilja H. Experiences and satisfaction of video follow up of children with paediatric gastrointestinal conditions linking tertiary centre with guardians and clinicians at the local hospital: a cross-sectional study. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:6. [PMID: 38172717 PMCID: PMC10763293 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04475-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with complicated gastrointestinal conditions are dependent on follow up by tertiary care specialists throughout childhood to prevent and treat complications. In Sweden, paediatric surgical- and intestinal rehabilitation centres are centralised which means that many patients and guardians have to travel long distances to access tertiary referral centres. Our tertiary referral centre has developed a model of shared care with video conferences for follow up with our centre and the patient and guardians attending together with the responsible professionals at the local hospital. This study aimed to investigate the experiences and satisfaction with video follow-up visits (VFV) between a tertiary referral centre and guardians and clinicians at their local hospital. METHODS Eligible participants were families with children with oesophageal atresia, intestinal failure and intestinal motility disorders and their local clinicians attending VFV with our tertiary referral centre from 2015 to 2020. Questionnaires included fixed-response alternatives, a 6-point Likert scale and open questions. RESULTS Fifty-seven out of 102 families (56%) and 19 out of 27 local clinicians (70%) responded the questionnaires. In 68% of the VFV, two guardians attended compared to 35% in the physical visits. Of the guardians attending VFV, 82% lost ≤ half a working day and 91% attending physical visits lost ≥ one full working day. Median distance to the tertiary referral centre was 267 km and attending VFV avoided emissions of 7.2 metric tonnes of CO2. Of the guardians, 90% and of the clinicians 95% were satisfied with VFV. Advantages were avoidance of travelling and the participants shared the same information. CONCLUSIONS VFV is an appropriate alternative to physical visits with a high grade of satisfaction among the guardians and clinicians. VFV was time-saving for the families and reduced CO2 emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Marie Kassa
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
- Paediatric Surgery unit, Uppsala University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden.
| | - Niklas Nyström
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Paediatric gastroenterology unit, Uppsala University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
| | - Kajsa Waldenvik
- Paediatric gastroenterology unit, Uppsala University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
| | - Helene Engstrand Lilja
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Paediatric Surgery unit, Uppsala University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
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Georgeades C, Young SA, Nataliansyah MM, Van Arendonk KJ. Characterizing rural families' experiences receiving pediatric surgical care: A qualitative study. J Rural Health 2023; 39:833-843. [PMID: 37430387 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Access to pediatric surgical care is influenced by multiple factors, including proximity to care and financial resources. There is limited understanding regarding the process by which rural children acquire surgical care. We qualitatively explored rural families' experiences seeking surgical care for their children at a major children's hospital. METHODS Parents or legal guardians ≥18 years of age with children who received general surgical care at a major children's hospital and who lived in rural areas were included. Operative logs from 2020 to 2021 and postoperative clinic visits were used to identify families. Semi-structured interviews explored rural families' experiences receiving surgical care. Interviews were inductively and deductively analyzed to create codes and identify thematic domains. Twelve interviews (with 15 individuals) were conducted before thematic saturation was reached. FINDINGS Children were predominantly White (92%) and lived a median of 98.3 mi (interquartile range 49.4-147.0 mi) from the hospital. Four thematic domains were identified: (1) Accessing surgical care included difficulties with referral processes and travel/lodging burdens; (2) surgical care processes involved treatment details and provider/hospital expertise; (3) resources for navigating care encompassed families' employment status, financial burden, and technology use; and (4) social support included family situations, emotions and stress, and coping with diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS Rural families experienced difficulties with obtaining referrals, challenges with travel and employment, and the benefits of technology use. These findings can be applied to the development of tools that can ease challenges faced by rural families whose children require surgical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Georgeades
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Staci A Young
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Healthy Communities and Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mochamad Muska Nataliansyah
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kyle J Van Arendonk
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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McMaster T, Mori K, Lee S, Manasa S, Stelmach W, To H. Innovations and Implementation of Telemedicine in Surgical Clinics Beyond COVID-19: A Narrative Review. Telemed J E Health 2023; 29:50-59. [PMID: 35736794 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in the delivery of health care to surgical patients and innovations are developing to address challenges in the technology, enhancing consumer-provider encounters while located remotely. Our study aims at collating and commenting on the published evidence for how current challenges in telemedicine for surgical clinics are met by innovations currently in development. We also comment on the implementation and monitoring strategies for telemedicine. Methods: Databases searched included: PubMed, OVID Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and review of reference lists. Key words used were "telemedicine"; "telehealth"; "videoconference"; "outpatient"; and "surgical clinic." For inclusion, articles required to be in English, published between 2000 and 2021, were in an outpatient surgical setting, and if they had a focus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Three hundred forty-five articles were identified and screened, so that 73 articles were included in the review. Almost all articles were from Western countries (n = 69), mostly in surgical journals (n = 39) and from a range of sub-specialties, but pre-dominantly orthopedics (n = 12) and general surgery (n = 9). The majority were original comparative studies, with 31 studies directly comparing telemedicine with in-person appointments and 22 articles focused on implementation during COVID-19. Discussion/Conclusion: Advanced telecommunication technology has enabled telemedicine to become an effective and safe form of health care delivery, with high consumer and provider satisfaction. Innovative protocol and technology developments have addressed the limitations of telemedicine. Sophisticated and familiar medical software integrates with electronic medical records to automate and streamline documentation, consent, and billing processes. Surgical clinics are investing in telehealth workflow co-ordination and information technology support to troubleshoot any technical difficulties as well as education for providers and consumers to address technology illiteracy. As health care services continue to transition their systems to an online network, further research is required to understand the ability and assess the feasibility of telemedicine to fully integrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas McMaster
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Krinal Mori
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Sharon Lee
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Siri Manasa
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Wanda Stelmach
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Henry To
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Werribee Mercy Hospital, Werribee, Australia
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Gross K, Georgeades C, Farazi M, Calaway L, Gourlay D, Van Arendonk KJ. Utilization and Adequacy of Telemedicine for Outpatient Pediatric Surgical Care. J Surg Res 2022; 278:179-189. [PMID: 35605570 PMCID: PMC9121887 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine (TM) use accelerated out of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the utility of TM within the pediatric surgery population is unclear. This study measured utilization, adequacy, and disparities in uptake of TM in pediatric surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Scheduled outpatient pediatric surgery clinic encounters at a large academic children's hospital from January 2020 through March 2021 were reviewed. Sub-group analysis examined post-operative (PO) visits after appendectomy and umbilical, epigastric, and inguinal hernia repairs. RESULTS Of 9149 scheduled visits, 87.9% were in-person and 12.1% were TM. TM visits were scheduled for PO care (76.9%), new consultations (7.1%), and established patients (16.0%). Although TM visits were more frequently canceled or no shows (P < 0.001), most canceled TM visits were PO visits, of which 41.7% were canceled via electronic communication reporting the absence of any PO concerns. TM visits were adequate for accomplishing visit goals in 98.2%, 95.5%, and 96.2% of PO, new, and established patient visits, respectively. Patients utilizing TM visits were more frequently of white race, privately-insured, from less disadvantaged neighborhoods, and living a greater distance from clinic (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). CONCLUSIONS TM was adequate for the majority of visits in which it was utilized, including the basic PO visits that occurred via TM. TM was used more by patients with greater travel and less by those of minority race, with public insurance, and from more disadvantaged neighborhoods. Future work is necessary to ensure broad access to this useful tool for all children requiring surgical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall Gross
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Wisconsin and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Christina Georgeades
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Wisconsin and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Manzur Farazi
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Wisconsin and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Lynn Calaway
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Wisconsin and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - David Gourlay
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Wisconsin and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Kyle J Van Arendonk
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Wisconsin and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
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The utilization of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic: An American Pediatric Surgical Association survey. J Pediatr Surg 2022; 57:1391-1397. [PMID: 35249736 PMCID: PMC8828297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited in-person visits during the COVID-19 pandemic, with liberal reimbursement policies, resulted in increased use of video conferencing (hereby described as telehealth) for patient care. To better understand the impact on pediatric surgeons and their patients, we surveyed members of the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) regarding telehealth use prior to and during the pandemic. METHODS An iteratively developed survey was sent to all active, non-trainee surgeons within APSA during March 2021. RESULTS Of 247 responses (23% response rate), 154 (62%) began using telehealth during the pandemic. In addition to the 101 (60.5%) respondents who felt telehealth had a positive impact on their clinical practice, 161 (74.2%) felt that it had a positive impact on their patients' satisfaction. The most common barriers to telehealth use prior to COVID-19 were availability of technology (39.3%), patient access to technology (36.0%), and lack of reimbursement (32.0%). These barriers became less substantial during the pandemic. Most respondents (95.3%) indicated they would continue using telehealth post-pandemic if it remains appropriately reimbursed. CONCLUSIONS The majority of pediatric surgeons implemented telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic and endorsed a positive effect on their clinical practice as well as on patient satisfaction. An overwhelming majority would continue using this technology if reimbursement policies remain favorable.
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Shin YJ, Mohanty A, Kang A, Judge CE, Baroody FM, Shogan A, Rodriguez SH, Reid RR, Frim D, Chokshi NK, Mak G, Slidell MB, Lee TK, Kandel J, Truehart A, Gundeti MS. Telehealth: A new paradigm? Paediatric surgical subspecialty telemedicine survey in the COVID-19 Pandemic at a tertiary care centre. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL UROLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/20514158221086137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Although the technology has been available and several pilot studies have shown success, use of telemedicine has previously been limited in the United States, especially among surgeons. This study aimed to investigate the benefits and obstacles for successful implementation of telemedicine visits in paediatric surgical subspecialties amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We analysed survey data from telemedicine visits with paediatric surgical subspecialists from May 1 through June 30, 2020 at our paediatric surgery subspecialty clinics. Univariate logistic regression was used to determine associations in survey responses and various demographic factors. Results: There were 164 respondents to the survey. The most frequently cited barrier to care was ability to get time off work (46.3%). Overall satisfaction with the telemedicine visit was 93.8%, and 55.6% responded that they would choose video telemedicine rather than an in-person or telephone visit. Those living at least 25 miles from the hospital had increased odds of indicating interest in using telemedicine for future visits (OR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.12–5.86, p = 0.026). The average respondent saved between 30 minutes and 1 hour, and 45 minutes using telemedicine. Conclusions: The implementation of telemedicine at our institution in the paediatric surgical subspecialties has proven to be effective and well-received. Given the benefits of time and money saved for families, paired with high satisfaction rates and continued interest, paediatric surgical subspecialists should work to incorporate virtual visits into regular patient care, even well after the COVID-19 pandemic. Level of Evidence: Level IV
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jin Shin
- Biological Sciences Learning Center, Pritzker School of Medicine, The University of Chicago, USA
| | - Amrita Mohanty
- Biological Sciences Learning Center, Pritzker School of Medicine, The University of Chicago, USA
| | - Audry Kang
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Clark E Judge
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Fuad M Baroody
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Andrea Shogan
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | | | - Russell R Reid
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - David Frim
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | | | - Grace Mak
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Mark B Slidell
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Thomas K Lee
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Jessica Kandel
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
| | - Amber Truehart
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, USA
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Manglani M, Lala MM, Gabhale Y, Balakrishnan S, Bhuyan K, Rewari BB, Setia MS. Attitudes and acceptability of children, caregivers, and healthcare providers about using telemedicine for pediatric HIV care in a resource-limited setting. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268740. [PMID: 35613106 PMCID: PMC9132320 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Pediatric HIV Telemedicine Initiative is a video-linked delivery of expert services, designed to reach those previously unable to access expert HIV care. The present qualitative study was designed to understand the acceptability of telemedicine [TM] by patients, their caregivers and health care providers in the anti-retroviral therapy (ART) centers in Maharashtra. METHODS We conducted focus group discussions with caregivers at six ART centres (three linked with TM facilities and three not linked with TM). We also conducted in-depth interviews with medical officers, counselors, and pharmacists at each centre. The data from the interviews were transcribed and translated into English for analysis. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic framework approach. RESULTS Children and caregivers who had participated in telemedicine consultation through video conference found the process acceptable, were comfortable communicating during these sessions, and did not have any specific problem to report. The advantages of TM were: consultation without having to travel to other cities; economic advantage; and prompt consultation. The total time spent during the process and technical difficulties during the TM sessions were some of the challenges. The medical officers had the opportunity to discuss difficult cases with the expert during the TM session. Some sessions were also considered a 'group counseling' session, wherein several children and caregivers were able to interact and learn from each other and motivate each other. The health care providers at the three centers that did not currently have TM facilities expressed a desire to have these services at their centers as well. According to them, these facilities will help them address complicated and difficult pediatric HIV cases. Currently, they send their patients to referral centers or other hospitals. Since, many of these referral hospitals are situated in bigger cities, less than 50% of patients access care at these centers This is mostly due to the time constraints and finances (travel/stay) required for accessing these centres. DISCUSSION TM was a feasible, acceptable, and desired approach for care of children living with HIV/AIDS. It provides support to their caregivers as well as their care providers. The ART staff from the telemedicine-linked peripheral centers were supportive of the use of TM and wanted these services to be initiated in the non-linked centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Manglani
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Centre of Excellence for HIV, LTM Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Mamatha Murad Lala
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Centre of Excellence for HIV, LTM Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, India
- * E-mail: (MSS); (MML)
| | - Yashwant Gabhale
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Centre of Excellence for HIV, LTM Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | | | | | - B. B. Rewari
- HIV/STI/HEP WHO, Regional Office for South East Asia, (Formerly, National Program Office, CST, National AIDS Control Organization, India), New Delhi, India
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Murphy A, Kirby A, Lawlor A, Drummond FJ, Heavin C. Mitigating the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Adult Cancer Patients through Telehealth Adoption: A Systematic Review. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22093598. [PMID: 35591287 PMCID: PMC9105995 DOI: 10.3390/s22093598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the delivery of life-saving and life-prolonging health services for oncology care and supporting services was delayed and, in some cases, completely halted, as national health services globally shifted their attention and resources towards the pandemic response. Prior to March 2020, telehealth was starting to change access to health services. However, the onset of the global pandemic may mark a tipping point for telehealth adoption in healthcare delivery. We conducted a systematic review of literature published between January 2020 and March 2021 examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adult cancer patients. The review's inclusion criteria focused on the economic, social, health, and psychological implications of COVID-19 on cancer patients and the availability of telehealth services emerged as a key theme. The studies reviewed revealed that the introduction of new telehealth services or the expansion of existing telehealth occurred to support and enable the continuity of oncology and related services during this extraordinary period. Our analysis points to several strengths and weaknesses associated with telehealth adoption and use amongst this cohort. Evidence indicates that while telehealth is not a panacea, it can offer a "bolstering" solution during a time of disruption to patients' access to essential cancer diagnostic, treatment, and aftercare services. The innovative use of telehealth has created opportunities to reimagine the delivery of healthcare services beyond COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aileen Murphy
- Department of Economics, Cork University Business School, University College Cork, T12 CY82 Cork, Ireland; (A.M.); (A.K.); (A.L.)
| | - Ann Kirby
- Department of Economics, Cork University Business School, University College Cork, T12 CY82 Cork, Ireland; (A.M.); (A.K.); (A.L.)
| | - Amy Lawlor
- Department of Economics, Cork University Business School, University College Cork, T12 CY82 Cork, Ireland; (A.M.); (A.K.); (A.L.)
| | | | - Ciara Heavin
- Department of Business Information Systems, Cork University Business School, University College Cork, T12 CY82 Cork, Ireland
- Correspondence:
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Risk Stratification and Cancer Follow-Up: Towards More Personalized Post-Treatment Care in Canada. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:3215-3223. [PMID: 35621651 PMCID: PMC9139666 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29050261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
After treatment, cancer survivors require ongoing, comprehensive care to improve quality of life, reduce disability, limit complications, and restore function. In Canada and internationally, follow-up care continues to be delivered most often by oncologists in institution-based settings. There is extensive evidence to demonstrate that this model of care does not work well for many survivors or our cancer systems. Randomized controlled trials have clearly demonstrated that alternate approaches to follow-up care are equivalent to oncologist-led follow-up in terms of patient outcomes, such as recurrence, survival, and quality of life in a number of common cancers. In this paper, we discuss the state of follow-up care for survivors of prevalent cancers and the need for more personalized models of follow-up. Indeed, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to post-treatment follow-up care, and more personalized approaches to follow-up that are based on individual risks and needs after cancer treatment are warranted. Canada lags behind when it comes to personalizing follow-up care for cancer survivors. There are many reasons for this, including difficulty in determining who is best served by different follow-up pathways, a paucity of evidence-informed self-management education and supports for most survivors, poorly developed IT solutions and systems, and uneven coordination of care. Using implementation science theories, approaches, and methods may help in addressing these challenges and delineating what might work best in particular settings and circumstances.
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13
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Metzger GA, Cooper J, Lutz C, Jatana KR, Nishimura L, Patterson KN, Deans KJ, Minneci PC, Halaweish I. Examining the Utility of Preoperative Telemedicine Care Across Multiple Pediatric Surgery Disciplines. J Surg Res 2022; 277:138-147. [PMID: 35489219 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telemedicine use within pediatric surgery fields has been growing, but research on the utility of remote evaluation in the perioperative period remains scarce. The objective of this study was to examine the utility of perioperative telemedicine care for the pediatric patient by evaluating the outcomes following completion of an outpatient appointment with a surgical provider. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients who completed a telemedicine appointment with a provider across nine pediatric surgery divisions, without a limitation based on patient-specific characteristics or telemedicine platform. We examined the result of the initial telemedicine appointment and the outcome of any surgical procedure that was performed as a result. RESULTS A total of 803 patients were evaluated by telemedicine during the study period. Of the 164 encounters (20.2%) that were followed by a surgery, nearly 70% were performed using a video. There was no discordance in the preoperative and postoperative diagnoses for more than 98% of patients. Nearly 25% of operations were followed by at least a 1-night hospital stay and 6.7% of patients developed a postoperative complication. CONCLUSIONS Telemedicine is a safe tool for evaluating pediatric patients in the preoperative and postoperative phases of care and offers potential value for families seeking an alternative to the traditional in-person appointment. Ongoing support will require permanent legislative changes aimed at ensuring comparable compensation and the development of strategies to adapt the outpatient healthcare model to better accommodate the evolving requirements of remotely evaluating and treating pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A Metzger
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer Cooper
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Carley Lutz
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kris R Jatana
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Leah Nishimura
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kelli N Patterson
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Katherine J Deans
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Peter C Minneci
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ihab Halaweish
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.
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Naik N, Hameed BMZ, Nayak SG, Gera A, Nandyal SR, Shetty DK, Shah M, Ibrahim S, Naik A, Kamath N, Mahdaviamiri D, D'costa KK, Rai BP, Chlosta P, Somani BK. Telemedicine and Telehealth in Urology-What Do the 'Patients' Think About It? Front Surg 2022; 9:863576. [PMID: 35495745 PMCID: PMC9051070 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.863576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine is the delivery of healthcare to patients who are not in the same location as the physician. The practice of telemedicine has a large number of advantages, including cost savings, low chances of nosocomial infection, and fewer hospital visits. Teleclinics have been reported to be successful in the post-surgery and post-cancer therapy follow-up, and in offering consulting services for urolithiasis patients. This review focuses on identifying the outcomes of the recent studies related to the usage of video consulting in urology centers for hematuria referrals and follow-up appointments for a variety of illnesses, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), kidney stone disease (KSD), and urinary tract infections (UTIs) and found that they are highly acceptable and satisfied. Certain medical disorders can cause embarrassment, social exclusion, and also poor self-esteem, all of which can negatively impair health-related quality-of-life. Telemedicine has proven beneficial in such patients and is a reliable, cost-effective patient-care tool, and it has been successfully implemented in various healthcare settings and specialties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithesh Naik
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
- iTRUE (International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology) Group, Manipal, India
| | - B. M. Zeeshan Hameed
- iTRUE (International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology) Group, Manipal, India
- Department of Urology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, India
| | - Sanjana Ganesh Nayak
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Anshita Gera
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | | | - Dasharathraj K. Shetty
- Department of Humanities and Management, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Milap Shah
- iTRUE (International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology) Group, Manipal, India
- Robotics and Urooncology, Max Hospital and Max Institute of Cancer Care, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufyan Ibrahim
- iTRUE (International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology) Group, Manipal, India
- Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Aniket Naik
- Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Nagaraj Kamath
- Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Delaram Mahdaviamiri
- Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Kenisha Kevin D'costa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Bhavan Prasad Rai
- iTRUE (International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology) Group, Manipal, India
- Department of Urology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Piotr Chlosta
- Department of Urology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Kraków, Poland
| | - Bhaskar K. Somani
- iTRUE (International Training and Research in Uro-oncology and Endourology) Group, Manipal, India
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Chua V, Koh JH, Koh CHG, Tyagi S. The Willingness to Pay for Telemedicine Among Patients With Chronic Diseases: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e33372. [PMID: 35416779 PMCID: PMC9047785 DOI: 10.2196/33372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Telemedicine is increasingly being leveraged, as the need for remote access to health care has been driven by the rising chronic disease incidence and the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also important to understand patients’ willingness to pay (WTP) for telemedicine and the factors contributing toward it, as this knowledge may inform health policy planning processes, such as resource allocation or the development of a pricing strategy for telemedicine services. Currently, most of the published literature is focused on cost-effectiveness analysis findings, which guide health care financing from the health system’s perspective. However, there is limited exploration of the WTP from a patient’s perspective, despite it being pertinent to the sustainability of telemedicine interventions. Objective To address this gap in research, this study aims to conduct a systematic review to describe the WTP for telemedicine interventions and to identify the factors influencing WTP among patients with chronic diseases in high-income settings. Methods We systematically searched 4 databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and EconLit). A total of 2 authors were involved in the appraisal. Studies were included if they reported the WTP amounts or identified the factors associated with patients’ WTP, involved patients aged ≥18 years who were diagnosed with chronic diseases, and were from high-income settings. Results A total of 11 studies from 7 countries met this study’s inclusion criteria. The proportion of people willing to pay for telemedicine ranged from 19% to 70% across the studies, whereas the values for WTP amounts ranged from US $0.89 to US $821.25. We found a statistically significant correlation of age and distance to a preferred health facility with the WTP for telemedicine. Higher age was associated with a lower WTP, whereas longer travel distance was associated with a higher WTP. Conclusions On the basis of our findings, the following are recommendations that may enhance the WTP: exposure to the telemedicine intervention before assessing the WTP, the lowering of telemedicine costs, and the provision of patient education to raise awareness on telemedicine’s benefits and address patients’ concerns. In addition, we recommend that future research be directed at standardizing the reporting of WTP studies with the adoption of a common metric for WTP amounts, which may facilitate the generalization of findings and effect estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Chua
- Office of Healthcare Transformation, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jin Hean Koh
- Office of Healthcare Transformation, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Shilpa Tyagi
- Office of Healthcare Transformation, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
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Shim JY, Kaur R, Laufer MR, Grimstad FW. The Use of Telemedicine in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2022; 35:133-137. [PMID: 34619357 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2021.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To study the feasibility of virtual visits for ambulatory encounters in pediatric and adolescent gynecology DESIGN: A retrospective review SETTING: Boston Children's Hospital PARTICIPANTS: Patients who were seen virtually through the Division of Gynecology between January 1, 2020 and June 1, 2020 MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Patient demographics, visit diagnoses, and operational characteristics of the completed visits RESULTS: There were a total of 654 virtual visits for 614 patients. Ninety-one percent (n=558) of patients were in-state, and the median age of patients was 17 years (range 0 - 37 years). The majority were return visits (n=502, 76.8%), 115 (17.6%) were new patient visits, and 32 (4.89%) were post-operative visits. The median virtual visit duration was 12 minutes and 39 seconds (range 5 minutes to over 1 hour). The most common gynecologic diagnoses were dysmenorrhea/endometriosis (n=485, 74.2%), abnormal uterine bleeding (n=225, 34.4%), and pelvic pain (n=82, 12.5%). The percentage of virtual visits which required an in-person follow-up visit within 90 days was low (n=14, 2.1%). Five of these were within 30 days from the initial virtual visit, 6 were within 60 days, and 3 were within 90 days. CONCLUSION Telemedicine is a feasible method for expanding access to, and healthcare delivery for, pediatric and adolescent gynecology, with low rates of short interval in-person follow-up required. Virtual visits can be conducted for a range of patients with a variety of gynecologic conditions, upon initial presentation and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Y Shim
- Division of Gynecology, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Ravneet Kaur
- Innovative and Digital Health Accelerator, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marc R Laufer
- Division of Gynecology, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Frances W Grimstad
- Division of Gynecology, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Hargis-Villanueva A, Lai K, van Leeuwen K, Weidler EM, Felts J, Schmidt A, Franklin WJ, Lindblade C, Martin GC, Patil AS, Goncalves LF. Telehealth multidisciplinary prenatal consultation during the COVID-19 pandemic: enhancing patient care coordination while maintaining high provider satisfaction. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 35:9765-9769. [PMID: 35337237 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2022.2053101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Comprehensive fetal care centers address congenital anomalies by developing pre- and post-natal care plans in a multidisciplinary format. To reduce exposure during the Coronavirus Infectious Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) broadened access to telehealth services. We assessed provider satisfaction with the rapid transition from in-person prenatal visits to multidisciplinary consultations via telehealth as an adaptive response to the pandemic. METHODS Patients referred to an urban academic fetal care center during the first 6 weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic underwent advanced imaging including fetal MRI, focused ultrasound, and fetal echocardiography. Subsequently, multidisciplinary telehealth consultations occurred with all providers attending virtually. Patients were given the option of attending the multidisciplinary telehealth consultation in a conference room in the hospital or from home. During these meetings, relevant images were reviewed with all participants via screen sharing through a secure video platform. Provider satisfaction with the telehealth paradigm was assessed using an electronic survey. RESULTS Twenty-two surveys were administered with a response rate of 82%. 89% of providers were highly satisfied with the telehealth format. 72% of providers would prefer the multidisciplinary telehealth format to an in-person visit for future visits after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. 22% of providers would leave the choice to the patient's family. One provider preferred in-person visits. Some providers noted that virtual conferences limited the ability to draw pictures, show educational materials, and provide emotional support. CONCLUSION Providers were overwhelmingly supportive of continuing multidisciplinary telehealth conferences for complex prenatal consultations, even after restrictions are lifted, which has led to the continuation of this model for the duration of the pandemic. Providers highlighted the convenience and improved care coordination across specialties. Further studies to examine the patient experience with virtual consultations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Krista Lai
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Kathleen van Leeuwen
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Erica M Weidler
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Jessica Felts
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Alicia Schmidt
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Wayne J Franklin
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Christopher Lindblade
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Gregory C Martin
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Division of Neonatology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Avinash S Patil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,Valley Perinatal Services, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Luis F Goncalves
- Division of Radiology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Abraham J, Meng A, Holzer KJ, Brawer L, Casarella A, Avidan M, Politi MC. Exploring patient perspectives on telemedicine monitoring within the operating room. Int J Med Inform 2021; 156:104595. [PMID: 34627112 PMCID: PMC10627166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2021.104595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical decision support systems and telemedicine for remote monitoring can together support clinicians' intraoperative decision-making and management of surgical patients' care. However, there has been limited investigation on patient perspectives about advanced health information technology use in intraoperative settings, especially an electronic OR (eOR) for remote monitoring and management of surgical patients. PURPOSE Our study objectives were: (1) to identify participant-rated items contributing to patient attitudes, beliefs, and level of comfort with eOR monitoring; and (2) to highlight barriers and facilitators to eOR use. METHODS We surveyed 324 individuals representing surgical patients across the United States using Amazon Mechanical Turk, an online platform supporting internet-based work. The structured survey questions examined the level of agreement and comfort with eOR for remote patient monitoring. We calculated descriptive statistics for demographic variables and performed a Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test to assess whether participants were more comfortable with familiar clinicians from local hospitals or health systems monitoring their health and safety status during surgery than clinicians from hospitals or health systems in other regions or countries. We also analyzed open-ended survey responses using a thematic approach informed by an eight-dimensional socio-technical model. RESULTS Participants' average age was 34.07 (SD = 10.11). Most were white (80.9%), male (57.1%), and had a high school degree or more (88.3%). Participants reported a higher level of comfort with clinicians they knew monitoring their health and safety than clinicians they did not know, even within the same healthcare system (z = -4.012, p < .001). They reported significantly higher comfort levels with clinicians within the same hospital or health system in the United States than those in a different country (z = -10.230, p < .001). Facilitators and barriers to eOR remote monitoring were prevalent across four socio-technical dimensions: 1) organizational policies, procedures, environment, and culture; 2) people; 3) workflow and communication; and 4) hardware and software. Facilitators to eOR use included perceptions of improved patient safety through a safeguard system and perceptions of streamlined care. Barriers included fears of incorrect eOR patient assessments, decision-making conflicts between care teams, and technological malfunctions. CONCLUSIONS Participants expressed significant support for intraoperative telemedicine use and greater comfort with local telemedicine systems instead of long-distance telemedicine systems. Reservations centered on organizational policies, procedures, environment, culture; people; workflow and communication; and hardware and software. To improve the buy-in and acceptability of remote monitoring by an eOR team, we offer a few evidence-based guidelines applicable to telemedicine use within the context of OR workflow. Guidelines include backup plans for technical challenges, rigid care, and privacy standards, and patient education to increase understanding of telemedicine's potential to improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Abraham
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States; Institute for Informatics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States.
| | - Alicia Meng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Katherine J Holzer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Luke Brawer
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Aparna Casarella
- Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Michael Avidan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Mary C Politi
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States
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Parent Experience and Cost Savings Associated with a Novel Tele-physiatry Program for Children Living in Rural and Underserved Communities. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 103:8-13. [PMID: 34425088 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.07.807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate parent and therapist experience and cost savings from the payer perspective associated with a novel tele-physiatry program for children living in rural and underserved communities. DESIGN We designed a noninferiority, cluster-randomized crossover study at 4 school-based clinics to evaluate parent experience and perceived quality of care between a telemedicine-based approach in which the physiatrist conducts the visit remotely with an in-person therapist and a traditional in-person physiatrist clinic. SETTING Four school-based clinics in Northern California. PARTICIPANTS A total of 268 encounters (124 telemedicine and 144 in-person) were completed by 200 unique patients (N=200). INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Parent and therapist experience scores. RESULTS For parents and therapists, experience and perceived quality of care were high with no significant differences between telemedicine and in-person encounters. For parents whose children received a telemedicine encounter, 40 (54.8%) reported no preference for their child's subsequent encounter, 21 (28.8%) preferred a physiatrist telemedicine visit, and 12 (16.4%) preferred a physiatrist in-person visit. From the payer perspective, costs were $100 higher for in-person clinics owing to physician mileage reimbursement. CONCLUSIONS We found that school-based tele-physiatry for children with special health care needs is not inferior to in-person encounters with regard to parent and provider experience and perceived quality of care. Tele-physiatry was also associated with an average cost savings of $100 per clinic to the payer.
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Metzger GA, Cooper J, Lutz C, Jatana KR, Nishimura L, Deans KJ, Minneci PC, Halaweish I. The value of telemedicine for the pediatric surgery patient in the time of COVID-19 and beyond. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:1305-1311. [PMID: 33648729 PMCID: PMC7894074 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to COVID-19, the use of telemedicine within pediatric surgery was uncommon. To curb the spread of the virus many institutions restricted non-emergent clinic appointments, resulting in an increase in telemedicine use. We examined the value of telemedicine for patients presenting to a pediatric surgery clinic before and after COVID-19 METHODS: Perspectives and the potential value of telemedicine were assessed by surveying patients or caregivers of patients being evaluated by a general pediatric surgeon in-person prior to COVID-19 and by patients or caregivers of patients who completed a telemedicine appointment with a pediatric surgical provider during the COVID-19 period. RESULTS The pre-COVID survey was completed by 57 respondents and the post-COVID survey by 123. Most respondents were white and were caregivers 31-40 years of age. Prior to COVID-19, only 26% were familiar with telemedicine, 25% reported traveling more than 100 miles and >50% traveled more than 40 miles for their appointment. More than 25% estimated additional travel costs of at least $30 and in 43% of households, at least one adult had to miss time from work. Following a telemedicine appointment during the COVID-19 period, 76% reported the care received as excellent, 86% were very satisfied with their care, 87% reported the appointment was less stressful for their child than an in-person appointment, and 57% would choose a telemedicine appointment in the future. CONCLUSION For families seeking an alternative to the in-person encounter, telemedicine can provide added value over the traditional in-person encounter by reducing the burden of travel without compromising the quality of care. Telemedicine should be viewed as a viable option for pediatric surgery patients and future research directed toward optimizing the experience for patients and providers. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A. Metzger
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jennifer Cooper
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Carley Lutz
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kris R. Jatana
- Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Leah Nishimura
- The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Katherine J. Deans
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA,The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Peter C. Minneci
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA,The Center for Surgical Outcomes Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ihab Halaweish
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
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21
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Kenney LB, Vrooman LM, Lind ED, Brace‐O'Neill J, Mulder JE, Nekhlyudov L, Recklitis CJ. Virtual visits as long-term follow-up care for childhood cancer survivors: Patient and provider satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e28927. [PMID: 33559385 PMCID: PMC7995169 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Telemedicine can potentially meet objectives of long-term follow-up care (LTFU) for childhood cancer survivors (CCS) while reducing barriers. We surveyed providers at our institution about their satisfaction with video-conference virtual visits (VV) with 81 CCS during COVID-19 restrictions. The same 81 CCS (or parent proxies) were surveyed about their experience, of which 47% responded. Providers and CCS were highly satisfied with VV (86% and 95% "completely/very satisfied," respectively). CCS rated VV "as/nearly as" helpful as in-person visits (66%) and 82% prefer VV remain an option postpandemic. High levels of survivor and provider satisfaction with VV support ongoing investigation into implementation for LTFU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa B. Kenney
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of PediatricsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Lynda M. Vrooman
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of PediatricsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Eileen Duffey Lind
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jill Brace‐O'Neill
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jean E. Mulder
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Larissa Nekhlyudov
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of Medicine Brigham and Women's HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Christopher J. Recklitis
- David B. Perini Jr., Quality of Life ClinicDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA,Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of PediatricsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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22
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McMaster T, Wright T, Mori K, Stelmach W, To H. Current and future use of telemedicine in surgical clinics during and beyond COVID-19: A narrative review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2021; 66:102378. [PMID: 33996071 PMCID: PMC8105355 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2021.102378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in the delivery of healthcare to surgical patients and enhances clinician-patient encounters during all phases of patient care. Our study aims were: to review the current use and applicability of telemedicine; evaluate its suitability, safety and effectiveness in a surgical outpatient setting, particularly in the era of social distancing restrictions and provide insight into future applications. Methods Databases searched included: PubMed, OVID Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and review of reference lists. Key words used were "telemedicine"; "telehealth"; "videoconference"; "outpatient" and "surgical clinic". For inclusion, articles required to be in English, published between 2000 and 2021, were in an outpatient surgical setting and if they had a focus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results 335 articles were identified and screened, so that 63 articles were included in the review. Almost all articles were from Western countries (n = 60), mostly in surgical journals (n = 35) and from a range of sub-specialities, but pre-dominantly orthopaedics (n = 12) and general surgery (n = 7). The majority were original comparative studies where 31 studies directly compared telemedicine to in-person appointments and 14 papers focused on implementation during COVID-19. Discussion/conclusions Telemedicine has been safely used across various phases of surgical outpatient care, with its effectiveness evaluated by clinical outcomes, economics and user/provider satisfaction. Telemedicine has multiple accepted benefits including time efficiency, patient/healthcare cost savings and community access, but with reported limitations of clinical uncertainty, technology infrastructure requirements, cybersecurity vulnerabilities and healthcare regulatory restraints. These limitations are being overcome by accelerated implementation during COVID-19 via fast-tracked practice development. Further work is required via development of research protocols to refine the application of emerging telemedicine technologies and their applicability to different surgical sub-specialties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas McMaster
- Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Timothy Wright
- Department of Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Krinal Mori
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, VIC, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Wanda Stelmach
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, VIC, Australia
| | - Henry To
- Department of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, VIC, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Werribee Mercy Hospital, Werribee, VIC, Australia
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23
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Muñoz-Duyos A, Abarca-Alvarado N, Lagares-Tena L, Sobrerroca L, Costa D, Boada M, Ureña D, Delgado-Rivilla S. [Teleconsultation in a coloproctology unit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preliminary results]. Cir Esp 2021; 99:361-367. [PMID: 38620628 PMCID: PMC7342026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ciresp.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Introduction During the state of alarm established in Spain due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the face-to-face outpatient consultations were cancelled and a telephone consultation was established to follow up coloproctological patients. The objective of this study was to analyse the efficacy of telemedicine (by telephone) in monitoring patients in a coloproctology unit, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Prospective descriptive study of consecutive patients in a single centre. The result of the teleconsultation was classified as discharge, resolved visit or reprogramming and was analysed by different diagnostic groups. Results From March 19th to April 17th, 2020, the teleconsultation of 190 patients was carried out. The response rate was 94.2% (179). The diagnostic categories of the patients attended were: 51 (26.9%) colorectal neoplasia, 48 (25.3%) proctological pathology, 72 (37.9%) pelvic floor dysfunctions and 19 (10%) other benign pathologies. 105 (55.26%) could be recited as if they had come in person. Eleven (5.8%) patients were discharged. No significant differences were found between the different diagnostic categories and the resolution of the teleconsultation. The reasons for reprogramming are analyzed in the study. Conclusion In the context of a pandemic, teleconsultation has allowed 61% of follow-up visits to be definitively solved, avoiding the reprogramming of 116 patients. The new social and health paradigm after the pandemic will require a rethinking of our healthcare model, and in many aspects, telemedicine can offer tools for this.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Costa
- Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Tarrasa, España
| | - Mercè Boada
- Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Tarrasa, España
| | - Dolors Ureña
- Hospital Universitari Mútua Terrassa, Tarrasa, España
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24
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Tully L, Case L, Arthurs N, Sorensen J, Marcin JP, O'Malley G. Barriers and Facilitators for Implementing Paediatric Telemedicine: Rapid Review of User Perspectives. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:630365. [PMID: 33816401 PMCID: PMC8010687 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.630365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 has brought to the fore an urgent need for secure information and communication technology (ICT) supported healthcare delivery, as the pertinence of infection control and social distancing continues. Telemedicine for paediatric care warrants special consideration around logistics, consent and assent, child welfare and communication that may differ to adult services. There is no systematic evidence synthesis available that outlines the implementation issues for incorporating telemedicine to paediatric services generally, or how users perceive these issues. Methods: We conducted a rapid mixed-methods evidence synthesis to identify barriers, facilitators, and documented stakeholder experiences of implementing paediatric telemedicine, to inform the pandemic response. A systematic search was undertaken by a research librarian in MEDLINE for relevant studies. All identified records were blind double-screened by two reviewers. Implementation-related data were extracted, and studies quality appraised using the Mixed-Methods Appraisal Tool. Qualitative findings were analysed thematically and then mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Quantitative findings about barriers and facilitators for implementation were narratively synthesised. Results: We identified 27 eligible studies (19 quantitative; 5 mixed-methods, 3 qualitative). Important challenges highlighted from the perspective of the healthcare providers included issues with ICT proficiency, lack of confidence in the quality/reliability of the technology, connectivity issues, concerns around legal issues, increased administrative burden and/or fear of inability to conduct thorough examinations with reliance on subjective descriptions. Facilitators included clear dissemination of the aims of ICT services, involvement of staff throughout planning and implementation, sufficient training, and cultivation of telemedicine champions. Families often expressed preference for in-person visits but those who had tried tele-consultations, lived far from clinics, or perceived increased convenience with technology considered telemedicine more favourably. Concerns from parents included the responsibility of describing their child's condition in the absence of an in-person examination. Discussion: Healthcare providers and families who have experienced tele-consultations generally report high satisfaction and usability for such services. The use of ICT to facilitate paediatric healthcare consultations is feasible for certain clinical encounters and can work well with appropriate planning and quality facilities in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Tully
- Obesity Research and Care Group, School of Physiotherapy, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lucinda Case
- W82GO Child and Adolescent Weight Management Service, Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niamh Arthurs
- W82GO Child and Adolescent Weight Management Service, Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jan Sorensen
- Healthcare Outcomes Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James P. Marcin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Grace O'Malley
- Obesity Research and Care Group, School of Physiotherapy, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- W82GO Child and Adolescent Weight Management Service, Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin, Ireland
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25
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Metzger G, Jatana K, Apfeld J, Deans KJ, Minneci PC, Halaweish I. State of telemedicine use in pediatric surgery in the USA—where we stand and what we can gain from the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review. WORLD JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY 2021; 4:e000257. [DOI: 10.1136/wjps-2020-000257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWithin the last decade, the use of telemedicine within in primary care in the USA has greatly expanded; however, use remains uncommon in surgical specialties. The spread of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prompted healthcare institutions to limit in-person contact, resulting in an increase in telemedicine across all specialties, including pediatric surgery. The aims of this review were to evaluate potential barriers that limited the use of telemedicine in pediatric surgery prior to the COVID-19 period and to define how best to incorporate its use into a pediatric surgical practice going forward.MethodsA scoping review was performed to identify gaps in the literature pertaining to the use of telemedicine within general pediatric surgery in the USA prior to the outbreak of COVID-19. Next, a focused evaluation of the legislative and organizational policies on telemedicine was performed. Lastly, findings were summarized and recommendations for future research developed in the context of understanding and overcoming barriers that have plagued widespread adoption in the past.ResultsDespite evidence of telemedicine being safe and well received by adult surgical patients, a total of only three studies representing original research on the use of telemedicine within pediatric surgery were identified. Legislative and organizational policies regarding telemedicine have been altered in response to COVID-19, likely resulting in an increase in the use of telemedicine among pediatric surgeons.ConclusionsTelemedicine offers a safe and effective option for patients seeking an alternative to the in-person clinic appointment. The increased utilization of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic will provide an opportunity to learn how best to leverage the technology to decrease disparities and to overcome previous barriers.
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26
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Lakshin G, Banek S, Keese D, Rolle U, Schmedding A. Telemedicine in the pediatric surgery in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pediatr Surg Int 2021; 37:389-395. [PMID: 33388961 PMCID: PMC7778404 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-020-04822-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented expansion of telemedicine services worldwide. This study aimed to explore the practice of telemedicine in Pediatric Surgery in Germany, the impact of the pandemic on its development and parents' and surgeons' experiences with telemedicine. METHODS The study is a cross-sectional analysis using three surveys between 6/2020 and 10/2020: (1) all Pediatric Surgery departments of Germany reported whether they provide telemedicine services. (2) Members of the German Society of Pediatric Surgery and (3) families who participated in an outpatient visit by telephone or video with the Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology of the University Hospital Frankfurt completed an anonymous survey on their experience with telemedicine. RESULTS 21% of the Pediatric Surgery departments in Germany provided telemedicine, of which 57% started due to the pandemic. The lack of physical examination and face-to-face contact seem to be the major limitations to surgeons and parents. 48% of the parents answered that telemedicine is equal to or better than traditional appointments, while 33% thought that telemedicine is worse. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that families and doctors alike have had positive experiences with telemedicine and most will continue to use this format after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lakshin
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - S Banek
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - D Keese
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - U Rolle
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - A Schmedding
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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27
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Ong CSH, Lu J, Tan YQ, Tan LGL, Tiong HY. Implementation of a Ureteric Colic Telemedicine Service: A Mixed Methods Quality Improvement Study. Urology 2021; 147:14-20. [PMID: 33091386 PMCID: PMC7573635 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of a telemedicine service for ureteric colic patients in reducing the number of unnecessary face-to-face consultations and shortening waiting time for appointments. METHODS A telemedicine workflow was implemented as a quality improvement study using the Plan-Do-Study-Act method. All patients presenting with ureteric colic without high-risk features of fever, severe pain, and hydronephrosis, were recruited, and face-to-face appointments to review scan results were replaced with phone consultations. Data were prospectively collected over 3 years (January 2017 to December 2019). Patient outcomes including the reduction in face-to-face review visits, time to review, reattendance and intervention rates, were tracked in an interrupted time-series analysis, and qualitative feedback was obtained from patients and clinicians. RESULTS Around 53.2% of patients presenting with ureteric colic were recruited into the telemedicine workflow. A total of 465 patients (46.2%) had normal scan results and 250 patients (24.9%) did not attend their scan appointments, hence reducing the number of face-to-face consultations by 71.1%. A total of 230 patients (22.9%) required subsequent follow-up with urology, while 61 patients (6.1%) were referred to other specialties. Mean (SD) time to review was 30.0 (6.2) days, 6-month intervention rate was 3.4% (n = 34) and unplanned reattendance rate was 3.2% (n = 32). Around 93.1% of patients reported satisfaction with the service. CONCLUSION The ureteric colic telemedicine service successfully and sustainably reduced the number of face-to-face consultations and time to review without compromising on patient safety. The availability of this telemedicine service has become even more important in helping us provide care to patients with ureteric colic in the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Shu Hui Ong
- Department of Urology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Jirong Lu
- Department of Urology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore.
| | - Yi Quan Tan
- Department of Urology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Lincoln Guan Lim Tan
- Department of Urology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Ho Yee Tiong
- Department of Urology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore
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Wiebe ME, Shawyer AC. Impact of distance on postoperative follow-up in patients of pediatric surgery: a retrospective review. WORLD JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY 2020; 3:e000195. [DOI: 10.1136/wjps-2020-000195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveCentralization of medical services in Canada has resulted in patients travelling long distances for healthcare, which may compromise their health. We hypothesized that children living farther from a children’s hospital were offered and attended fewer follow-up appointments.MethodsWe reviewed children less than 17 years of age referred to the general surgery clinic at a tertiary children’s hospital during a 2-year period who underwent surgery. Descriptive statistics were performed.ResultsWe identified 723 patients. The majority were male (61%) with a median age of 7 years (range 18 days to16 years) and were from the major urban center (MUC) (56.3%). The median distance travelled to hospital for MUC patients was 8.9 km (range 0.9–22 km) vs 119.5 km (range 20.3–1950 km) for non-MUC patients. MUC children were offered more follow-up appointments (72.7% vs 60.8%, p<0.05). No significant differences existed in follow-up attendance rates (MUC 88.5% vs non-MUC 89.1%, p=0.84) or postoperative complications (9.8% vs 9.2%, p=0.78). There were no deaths.ConclusionsPatients living farther from a hospital were offered fewer follow-up appointments, but attended an equivalent rate of follow-ups when offered one. Telemedicine and remote follow-up are underused approaches that can permit follow-up appointments while reducing associated travel time and expenses.
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Smith E, Cline J, Patel A, Zamilpa I, Canon S. Telemedicine Versus Traditional for Follow-Up Evaluation of Enuresis. Telemed J E Health 2020; 27:213-217. [PMID: 32539570 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2019.0297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Telemedicine allows health care professionals to diagnose and treat patients remotely. Enuresis is one of the most common chronic problems in childhood and specialized care can be limited. Utilization of telemedicine in this setting has not been previously analyzed. Materials and Methods: This study's aim is to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine follow-up treatment of enuresis compared with traditional follow-up at our institution. A retrospective review of patients treated for nocturnal enuresis with either telemedicine (Group 1) or traditional (Group2) follow-up care was conducted. Patients, aged 5-18 years, treated for enuresis between July 2016 and December 2017 were included. Patients with confounding disease were excluded. Resolution of enuresis was the primary outcome as categorized by the International Children's Continence Society standards. Results: Seventy-seven (n = 77) patients met inclusion criteria with 23 patients in Group 1 and 54 patients in Group 2. Two patients in each group were lost to follow-up and 61.9% in Group 1 and 48.1% in Group 2 responded to treatment. The average age for both groups was 9.2 years. Patients in Group 1 averaged four appointments per patient and patients in Group 2 averaged 3.04 appointments per patient. Telemedicine follow-up patients missed fewer appointments (0.14) than patients with traditional follow-up (0.5) (p-value = 0.016). Thirteen of 21 patients (61.9%) responded to treatment in Group 1 (7 partial and 6 complete responders) as compared with 25 of 52 patients (48.1%) responding to treatment in Group 2 (8 partial and 17 complete responders) (p = 0.22). Of patients in Group 1, 87% reported they would use telemedicine again. Conclusions: Telemedicine follow-up of patients with enuresis demonstrated comparable effectiveness. Most patient families demonstrate a favorable opinion of using telemedicine again for this problem. Further research to understand the efficacy and benefits of telemedicine in this setting is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Smith
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Joseph Cline
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Ashay Patel
- Urology, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Ismael Zamilpa
- Urology, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Stephen Canon
- Urology, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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30
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Denning NL, Glick RD, Rich BS. Outpatient follow-up after pediatric surgery reduces emergency department visits and readmission rates. J Pediatr Surg 2020; 55:1037-1042. [PMID: 32171531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The factors affecting outpatient follow-up (OFU) after pediatric surgery have not been well studied. We evaluate factors impacting OFU and the effect of OFU in pediatric surgical patients. METHODS A retrospective review of all pediatric patients operated on by the Division of Pediatric Surgery from February 1st to September 30th, 2017, and subsequently discharged was performed. RESULTS 1242 patients were identified. Overall OFU was 69.6%. Language and distance between patient residence and the hospital had no impact on OFU. Inpatient surgical patients followed-up at a higher rate than ambulatory surgical patients (72.7% vs 64.8%, p < 0.01). Out-of-system transfers had the lowest OFU rate at 52.8% (p < 0.001). Insurance type and patient age had a significant impact on OFU rates. Thirty-day ED visit and readmission rates were significantly lower in those patients with OFU than in those without (8.8% vs 12.7%, p = 0.04 and 3.7% to 11.0%, p < 0.001, respectively). OFU was more beneficial in patients with inpatient procedures or longer hospitalization lengths of stay than in the cohort of ambulatory patients. CONCLUSIONS Socioeconomic status, hospital presentation, and procedural complexity influenced rates of OFU. OFU was associated with significant reductions in 30-day ED visits and readmissions, and this benefit was more pronounced for complex procedures or patients. TYPE OF STUDY Retrospective review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi-Liza Denning
- Cohen Children's Medical Center, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Northwell Health, 269-01 76(th) Ave, Queens, NY 11040
| | - Richard D Glick
- Cohen Children's Medical Center, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Northwell Health, 269-01 76(th) Ave, Queens, NY 11040
| | - Barrie S Rich
- Cohen Children's Medical Center, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Northwell Health, 269-01 76(th) Ave, Queens, NY 11040.
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Dean P, O’Donnell M, Zhou L, Skarsgard ED. Improving value and access to specialty medical care for families: a pediatric surgery telehealth program. Can J Surg 2020; 62:436-441. [PMID: 31782575 DOI: 10.1503/cjs.005918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Canada, access to subspecialty surgical services for children imposes inconvenience and financial hardship on geographically remote families. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a recently implemented pediatric surgical telehealth pilot program from the family and provider perspectives. Methods Enabled by an existing telehealth infrastructure for pediatric subspecialty medicine and mental health, a pilot telehealth program for surgical consultation was established by a single surgeon in British Columbia. Following establishment of eligibility criteria, patients from remote communities requiring new consultation or clinical follow-up were offered a telehealth alternative. At the end of the encounter, both the parent and patient (if appropriate) provided feedback via a questionnaire. Provider satisfaction was also assessed via a questionnaire. We estimated costs avoided and analyzed data on pediatric surgery consultation wait time. Results Between September 2014 and November 2017, 80 patients were seen in 19 remote telehealth centres, 23 as new referrals and 57 in follow-up consultation. Among new referrals, the commonest diagnosis was chest wall deformity. The average travel distance avoided was 705 km, with an estimated direct cost avoidance of $585. Sixty-four families (80%) completed the questionnaire. Almost all (63 [98%]) indicated high overall satisfaction with the telehealth experience. Provider satisfaction was similarly high, in terms of both the technology user interface and clinical effectiveness. Overall pediatric surgical consultation wait times were unaffected. Conclusion Implementation of telehealth technology in a pediatric surgical practice offered high value to patients/families and, from the provider’s perspective, yielded an acceptable alternative to in-person assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige Dean
- From the Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (Dean, Skarsgard); the Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (O’Donnell); the Office of Pediatric Surgical Evaluation and Innovation, Department of Surgery, BC Children’s Hospital (Zhou); and the BC Children’s Hospital, Child Health BC, Vancouver, British Columbia (O’Donnell)
| | - Maureen O’Donnell
- From the Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (Dean, Skarsgard); the Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (O’Donnell); the Office of Pediatric Surgical Evaluation and Innovation, Department of Surgery, BC Children’s Hospital (Zhou); and the BC Children’s Hospital, Child Health BC, Vancouver, British Columbia (O’Donnell)
| | - Lenny Zhou
- From the Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (Dean, Skarsgard); the Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (O’Donnell); the Office of Pediatric Surgical Evaluation and Innovation, Department of Surgery, BC Children’s Hospital (Zhou); and the BC Children’s Hospital, Child Health BC, Vancouver, British Columbia (O’Donnell)
| | - Erik D. Skarsgard
- From the Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (Dean, Skarsgard); the Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC (O’Donnell); the Office of Pediatric Surgical Evaluation and Innovation, Department of Surgery, BC Children’s Hospital (Zhou); and the BC Children’s Hospital, Child Health BC, Vancouver, British Columbia (O’Donnell)
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Cremades M, Ferret G, Parés D, Navinés J, Espin F, Pardo F, Caballero A, Viciano M, Julian JF. Telemedicine to follow patients in a general surgery department. A randomized controlled trial. Am J Surg 2020; 219:882-887. [PMID: 32252983 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2020.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine is becoming more popular in many medical specialties but few studies have been conducted in General Surgery. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of its introduction in this specialty. METHODS A prospective randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted in 200 patients to compare conventional vs telemedicine follow-up in the outpatient clinics. The primary outcome was the feasibility of telemedicine follow-up and the secondary outcomes were its clinical impact and patient satisfaction. RESULTS Patients were enrolled between March 2017 and April 2018 and there were no statistically significant differences between the groups' characteristics. The primary outcome was achieved in 90% of the conventional follow-up group and in 74% of the telemedicine group (P = 0.003). No differences were found in clinical outcomes (P = 0.832) or patient satisfaction (P = 0.099). CONCLUSION Telemedicine is a good complementary service to facilitate follow-up management in selected patients from a General Surgery department.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manel Cremades
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain.
| | - Georgina Ferret
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Doctor Josep Trueta, Spain
| | - David Parés
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain
| | - Jordi Navinés
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain
| | - Franc Espin
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain
| | - Fernando Pardo
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain
| | - Albert Caballero
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain
| | - Marta Viciano
- General Surgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Spain
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Gohari SH, Keshvardoost S, Sarabi RE, Bahaadinbeigy K. Travel Avoidance Using Telepediatric by Patients and Healthcare Providers: a Review of the Literature. Acta Inform Med 2020; 28:124-129. [PMID: 32742065 PMCID: PMC7382769 DOI: 10.5455/aim.2020.28.124-129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Telepediatric is one of the subspecialties of telemedicine that can be defined as the use of information and communication technology tools to offer healthcare services to children at a distance. Aim: The use of telepediatric healthcare services for children living in rural or deserved areas may reduce the cost and time of travel to access these services. This study aims to review published papers that assess the percentage of avoided travel or referrals with the use of telepediatric. Methods: This is a systematic review study. PubMed database was searched in September 2019 to retrieve the published papers. The final 24 retrieved papers were assessed based on the variables such as modality, referral setting, specialty, continent, weight, and percentage of avoided travel. The multivariate linear regression model was used to estimate the percentage of travel avoidance by telepediatric. Results: The linear regression model was determined based on the provided specialty for telepediatric (cardiology, general (multi), and other (rehabilitation, dermatology, psychiatry, respiratory)) with R2 =0.41. The results showed that the mean percentage of avoided travel in cardiology specialty as a baseline was 56%. The use of telepediatric in the general (multi) and other specialties can avoid travel for 26.5% (p=0.02) and 85% (p=0.03) respectively. Conclusion: This study showed that telepediatric could reduce travel at least 26.5% and maximal 85%. These results can be used by healthcare providers to decide on the implementation of successful telepediatric systems to reduce referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadrieh Hajesmaeel Gohari
- Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sareh Keshvardoost
- Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Ershad Sarabi
- Department of Health Information Sciences, Faculty of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kambiz Bahaadinbeigy
- Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Mouzoon JL, Lloyd-McLennan A, Marcin JP. Emergency Medicine Physicians' Perceptions of Pediatric Tele-Emergency Services. Telemed J E Health 2019; 26:955-958. [PMID: 31621515 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2019.0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study evaluated general emergency medicine (GEM) physicians' opinions on the barriers, perceptions, and utility of pediatric tele-emergency services, or the use of telemedicine for critically ill children in the emergency department (ED). Methods: Based on previously published surveys, a 27-item survey was created to assess GEM physicians' perspective on tele-emergency services provided by a regional group of pediatric critical care physicians. The survey was distributed to ED medical directors at 15 hospitals who actively participate in tele-emergency services. Results: Twelve of the 15 medical directors responded to the survey (80%). Results demonstrated that GEM physicians consider the pediatric critical care tele-emergency consultations clinically helpful (92%), particularly for the management of patients with respiratory distress, congenital anomalies, and cardiovascular processes. The most common barriers to using tele-emergency services included limited time (42%), integrating new technology and processes in existing workflows (42%), and the lack of clinical utility (42%), particularly for patients with nonacute and/or routine conditions. Lastly, half of GEM physicians felt that families preferred telemedicine to telephone consultations (50%). Conclusion: GEM physicians support the premise that pediatric tele-emergency services help with the clinical management of critically ill children. However, physicians do not consistently believe that tele-emergency services are always clinically necessary and time constraints continue to be a significant barrier. Selected use on specific clinical conditions and improving the integration in workflow processes would help increase the appropriate use of tele-emergency services in the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Mouzoon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Allison Lloyd-McLennan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - James P Marcin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
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DeAntonio JH, Kang HS, Cockrell HC, Rothstein W, Oiticica C, Lanning DA. Utilization of a handheld telemedicine device in postoperative pediatric surgical care. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:1005-1008. [PMID: 30782441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to assess the utilization of a handheld telemedicine (TM) device in the postoperative care of pediatric surgical patients. METHODS We performed postoperative TM evaluations using an advanced medical tablet immediately prior to seeing the patients in clinic as well as at two different time points from their home. The caregivers and physicians were surveyed about their overall satisfaction. RESULTS Twenty-four postoperative patients who underwent a variety of general surgical operations were included. There were no changes to the TM plan of care following "in person" evaluations (n = 12) and no complications, missed diagnoses, emergency department visits, or additional clinic visits in those who only had TM postoperative evaluations (n = 12). Caregiver satisfaction ratings were 3.92 ± 0.28 out of 4 (4 = very satisfied). Ninety-two percent of caregivers responded that they would be comfortable with a TM-only postoperative evaluation in the future. The physician was able to formulate an accurate assessment and plan using the device. The average travel distance saved was 44.7 ± 45.5 miles (range = 10-150 miles). CONCLUSIONS These preliminary data suggest safe and effective care with high caregiver and physician satisfaction can be provided by utilizing TM in the postoperative care of pediatric surgical patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H DeAntonio
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Hae Sung Kang
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Hannah C Cockrell
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - William Rothstein
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Claudio Oiticica
- Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Children's Pavilion, Richmond, VA
| | - David A Lanning
- Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Children's Pavilion, Richmond, VA.
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Otis-Chapados S, Coderre K, Bolduc S, Moore K. Evaluating the distance travelled for urological pediatric appointments. Can Urol Assoc J 2019; 13:391-394. [PMID: 31799921 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.5892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Quebec, eight pediatric urologists practice in three tertiary centers covering large territories. To improve the availability of pediatric urology to distant families and to reduce the economic burden on them, we examined the charts of all patients attending the pediatric urological outpatient clinic. Our objectives were to evaluate the distance travelled by each urological pediatric outpatient and to report the most frequent urological referral complaints. METHODS From July 2016 to June 2017, we retrospectively reviewed the charts of all the 3604 pediatric patients seen in the outpatient urological clinic of the CHU de Québec. We specifically focused on travel distance covered by families and the reason for referral. RESULTS Most patients were boys (78%) and the mean age was 7.2 years. The average one-way distance travelled by each family was 69 km. The patients came more frequently from Capitale-Nationale (63.7%) and Chaudière-Appalaches (21.9%), the closest regions. The most common reasons for consultations were postoperative followups (15%), phimosis and adhesions (14%), enuresias (14%), hydronephrosis (13%), micturition disorder (11%), and cryptorchidism and retractile testicles (8%). Of all patients seen for phimosis or cryptorchidism, only 24% and 36% of them, respectively, were scheduled for surgery. CONCLUSIONS Phimosis, cryptorchidism, and voiding disorders are the most frequent pediatric urological reasons for consultation; primary care continuing medical education seems worthwhile. It would, perhaps, be more beneficial for all to have the pediatric urologists travelling to perform clinics and surgeries in distant regions to save more than 300 km round trip to several families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Otis-Chapados
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Karolane Coderre
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphane Bolduc
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Katherine Moore
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Harting MT, Wheeler A, Ponsky T, Nwomeh B, Snyder CL, Bruns NE, Lesher A, Pandya S, Dickie B, Shah SR. Telemedicine in pediatric surgery. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:587-594. [PMID: 29801660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2018.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Telemedicine is an emerging strategy for healthcare delivery that has the potential to expand access, optimize efficiency, minimize cost, and enhance patient satisfaction. OBJECTIVE To review the current spectrum, potential strategies, and implementation process of telemedicine in pediatric surgery. DESIGN Review and opinion design. SETTING n/a. PARTICIPANTS n/a. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: n/a. RESULTS n/a. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Telemedicine is an emerging approach with the potential to facilitate efficient, cost-effective delivery of pediatric surgical services. BRIEF ABSTRACT Telemedicine is an emerging strategy for healthcare delivery that has the potential to expand access, optimize efficiency, minimize cost, and enhance patient satisfaction. The objectives of this review are to explore common terms in telemedicine, provide an overview of current legislative and billing guidelines, review the current state of telemedicine in surgery and pediatric surgery, and provide basic themes for successful implementation of a pediatric surgical telemedicine program. TYPE OF STUDY Review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Harting
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX.
| | - Austin Wheeler
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Todd Ponsky
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, OH
| | - Benedict Nwomeh
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Chuck L Snyder
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Childrens Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO
| | - Nicholas E Bruns
- Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease & Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Aaron Lesher
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Samir Pandya
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Belinda Dickie
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Sohail R Shah
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
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Glassman DT, Puri AK, Weingarten S, Hollander JE, Stepchin A, Trabulsi E, Gomella LG. Initial Experience with Telemedicine at a Single Institution. UROLOGY PRACTICE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urpr.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah T. Glassman
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ajay K. Puri
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah Weingarten
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Judd E. Hollander
- Department of Emergency Medicine and JeffConnect, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anna Stepchin
- JeffConnect, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Edouard Trabulsi
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Leonard G. Gomella
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Abstract
Telemedicine, the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of technology, provides an alternative means for patients to gain access to health care services. Telemedicine is a general term that includes the use of various communication technologies, including telephone, email, or videoconferencing. Telemedicine has the potential to reduce inefficiencies in the delivery of healthcare, diminish patient travel and wait times, and increase access to specialists for patients in rural settings. We review the use of telemedicine in the perioperative phase of care for pediatric surgical patients, their caregivers, and surgical providers, including pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-up. We also discuss physician billing compliance with remote telemedicine consultation and explore the barriers to adoption among the caregivers of pediatric surgery patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron P Lesher
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Sohail R Shah
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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40
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Hooshmand M, Foronda C. Comparison of Telemedicine to Traditional Face-to-Face Care for Children with Special Needs: A Quasiexperimental Study. Telemed J E Health 2017; 24:433-441. [PMID: 29265922 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2017.0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Services for Children with Special Healthcare Needs (CSHCN) have been challenging in terms of cost and access to appropriate healthcare services. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to examine cost, caring, and family-centered care in relationship to pediatric specialty services integrating telemedicine visits compared to traditional face-to-face visits only for (CSHCN) in rural, remote, and medically underserved areas. METHODS This study used a prospective, quasiexperimental research design with 222 parents or legal guardians of CSHCN receiving pediatric specialty care. The traditional group (n = 110) included families receiving face-to-face pediatric specialty care and the telemedicine group (n = 112) included families who had telemedicine visits along with traditional face-to-face pediatric specialty care. RESULTS Results indicated no significant differences in family costs when the telemedicine group was compared to traditional face-to-face care. When the telemedicine group was asked to anticipate costs if telemedicine was not available, there were significant differences found across all variables, including travel miles, cost of travel, missed work hours, wages lost, child care cost, lodging cost, other costs, and total family cost (p < 0.001). There were no differences in the families' perceptions of care as caring. Parents/guardians perceived the system of care as significantly more family-centered when using telemedicine (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study underscore the importance of facilitating access to pediatric specialty care by use of telemedicine. We endorse efforts to increase healthcare access and decrease cost for CSHCN by expanding telemedicine and shaping health policy accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Hooshmand
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami , Coral Gables, Florida
| | - Cynthia Foronda
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami , Coral Gables, Florida
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41
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Ma Y, Jones G, Tay YK, Hunter T, Holden D, Rodgers-Wilson S, Cashin P, Tan PY, Croagh D. Post-operative telephone review is safe and effective: prospective study - Monash outpatient review by phone trial. ANZ J Surg 2017; 88:434-439. [PMID: 29205807 DOI: 10.1111/ans.14280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies have shown that post-operative telephone follow-up is satisfactory and effective. As high quality evidence is scant, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare it against outpatient clinic review for emergency laparoscopic appendicectomy or cholecystectomy. METHOD Patients who received emergency laparoscopic appendicectomy or cholecystectomy were eligible for this study. Once recruited, they were randomly allocated to either clinic review or telephone follow-up on discharge. Participants were reviewed at 2 weeks after operation and contacted again at 4 weeks after initial follow-up for satisfaction survey. RESULTS One hundred and seventy-nine participants were recruited with one withdrawn consent and six excluded. Ninety-six underwent laparoscopic appendicectomy and 76 had laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Ninety-six attended clinic review and 76 had telephone follow-up. The two groups were similar in baseline variables. Non-attendance rate was higher for clinic review cohort (24% vs 6.6%, P = 0.002). Participants who received telephone review reported higher satisfaction level (9.31 vs 8.85, P = 0.002), and most patients prefer telephone follow-up (73.1%, P < 0.0001). No difference was detected for missed complications (P = 0.354). CONCLUSION Telephone follow-up post laparoscopic appendicectomy or cholecystectomy is safe, satisfying and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ma
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Surgery, Dandenong Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gregory Jones
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yeng Kwang Tay
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Surgery, Dandenong Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Toni Hunter
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Surgery, Dandenong Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dane Holden
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Surgery, Dandenong Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Rodgers-Wilson
- Department of General Surgery, Dandenong Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Cashin
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Pee Yau Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Dandenong Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel Croagh
- Department of Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mitchell R, Jacob H, Morrissey B, Macaulay C, Gomez K, Fertleman C. Managing outpatient consultations: from referral to discharge. Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed 2017; 102:200-206. [PMID: 28280118 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2016-311414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Although a great deal of paediatric consultations are not urgent, doctors in training spend so much time providing service for acute conditions that they spend little time focusing on outpatient work before they become a consultant. Engaging clinicians in the managerial aspects of providing clinical care is a key to improving outcomes, and this article addresses these aspects of the outpatient consultation from referral to discharge. We aim to provide doctors in training with a tool to use during their training and their first few years as a consultant, to think about how outpatient work is organised and how it can be improved to maximise patient experience. The non-urgent consultation varies across the world; this article is aimed to be relevant to an international audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Mitchell
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Lewisham, London, UK
| | - Hannah Jacob
- Department of Paediatrics, The Whittington Hospital, London, UK
| | - Benita Morrissey
- Department of Paediatrics, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Chloe Macaulay
- Department of Paediatrics, Evelina Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kumudini Gomez
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Lewisham, London, UK
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Ellimoottil C, Skolarus T, Gettman M, Boxer R, Kutikov A, Lee BR, Shelton J, Morgan T. Telemedicine in Urology: State of the Art. Urology 2016; 94:10-6. [PMID: 27109596 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2016.02.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Whereas telemedicine is recognized as one of the fastest-growing components of the healthcare system, the status of telemedicine use in urology is largely unknown. In this narrative review, we detail studies that investigate the use of televisits and teleconsultations for urologic conditions. Moreover, we discuss current regulatory and reimbursement policies. Finally, we discuss the significant barriers to widespread dissemination and implementation of telemedicine and reasons why the field of urology may be positioned to become a leader in the provision of telemedicine services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandy Ellimoottil
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
| | - Ted Skolarus
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Matthew Gettman
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN
| | - Richard Boxer
- Department of Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Alexander Kutikov
- Division of Urologic Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Benjamin R Lee
- Department of Urology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
| | - Jeremy Shelton
- Department of Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Todd Morgan
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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