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Talyshinskii A, Naik N, Hameed BMZ, Khairley G, Randhawa P, Somani BK. Telemedicine in Endourology for Patient Management and Healthcare Delivery: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Curr Urol Rep 2024:10.1007/s11934-024-01224-6. [PMID: 38980521 DOI: 10.1007/s11934-024-01224-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Researchers have examined how telemedicine affects endourological patients. This review analyzes the literature to determine telemedicine's benefits and limitations in endourology. RECENT FINDINGS Many studies were devoted to describing the effect of telemedicine on endourological patient satisfaction, optimization of the clinical decision-making among patients with kidney and ureteric stones, the effectiveness of telemedicine in the management of patients with indications for PCNL, follow-up for patients with urolithiasis and describing financial effectiveness for the patients after BOO surgery. The authors describe phone calls, video calls, and online booking platforms as used as telemedicine technology. However, several concerns also exist, such as the necessity of internet connections and appropriate devices, different receptivity among certain subgroups, data safety, and different regulatory environments among countries. Telemedicine offers the potential to reduce patient travel time, expedite decision-making, and save costs in endourology. However, its everyday implementation is challenging due to various obstacles faced by patients and providers, hindering the realization of its full potential and necessitating a systematic approach to problem-solving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Talyshinskii
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Nithesh Naik
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
| | - B M Zeeshan Hameed
- Department of Urology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Gafour Khairley
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Princy Randhawa
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Manipal University Jaipur, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Bhaskar Kumar Somani
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
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George PE, Kc D, Greenleaf M, Shah J, Lam WA, Hawkins CM. Bridging the Divide: Unintended Consequences of the Shift to Home-Based Telemedicine. J Pediatr 2024; 269:113719. [PMID: 37660973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact on health care access of the change in telemedicine delivery from a clinic-based model, in which patients connect with their healthcare provider from local telemedicine clinics, to a home-based model, in which patients independently connect from their homes. STUDY DESIGN In this retrospective analysis, we compared relative uptake in telemedicine services in Period 1 (01/01/2019 to 03/15/2020, prepandemic, clinic-based model) vs Period 2 (03/16/2020 to 06/30/2022, home-based model) within a tertiary pediatric hospital system. Using multivariable logistic regression, we investigated the influence of telemedicine delivery model on patient sociodemographic characteristics of completed telemedicine visits. RESULTS We analyzed 400 539 patients with 1 406 961 completed outpatient encounters (52% White, 35% Black), of which 62 920 (4.5%) were telemedicine. In the clinic-based model (Period 1), underserved populations had greater likelihoods of accessing telemedicine: Hispanic ethnicity (OR = 1.41, P = .028) vs reference group non-Hispanic, Medicaid (OR = 2.62, P < .001) vs private insurance, and low-income neighborhood (OR = 3.40, P < .001) vs medium-income. In aggregate, telemedicine utilization rapidly increased from Period 1 (1.5 encounters/day) to Period 2 (107.9 encounters/day). However, underserved populations saw less relative increase (Medicaid [OR = 0.28, P < .001], Hispanic [OR = 0.53, P < .001], low-income [OR = 0.23, P < .001]). CONCLUSIONS We observe that the clinic-based model offers more equitable access, while the home-based model offers more absolute access, suggesting that a hybrid model that offers both home-based and clinic-based services may result in more absolute and equitable access to telemedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E George
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Diwas Kc
- Emory University Goizueta Business School, Atlanta, GA
| | - Morgan Greenleaf
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; Georgia Clinical and Translational Science Alliance, Atlanta, GA
| | - Jay Shah
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Wilbur A Lam
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA; Georgia Institute of Technology, Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Atlanta, GA
| | - C Matthew Hawkins
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA.
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Katzow MW, Steinway C, Capossela E, Chen J, Chen V, Fenster T, Galagedera N, Hamill M, Lin E, Mamauag E, Moriarty S, Pathania S, Pliskin L, Ripp A, Ronay A, Santiago MT, Yang M, Jan S. Utilization and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Direct-to-Consumer Telemedicine During the First 6 Weeks of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Largest Pediatric Ambulatory Network in New York State. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:e1944-e1953. [PMID: 38597957 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: We aimed to (1) describe telemedicine utilization and usability during the first 6 weeks of the pandemic and (2) determine if usability varied by individual- or visit-level characteristics. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of ambulatory pediatric telemedicine visits occurring between March 10, 2020, and April 18, 2020, across a large academic health system. We performed manual chart review to assess individual- and visit-level characteristics and invited caregivers to respond to an adapted Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ). We used multiple logistic regression to determine predictors of high usability. Results: There were 3,197 ambulatory pediatric telemedicine visits, representing 2,967 unique patients. Patients were racially/ethnically diverse (42.5% non-Hispanic White) and primarily English-speaking (89.2%). Surveys were completed by 441 (17%) of those invited. Every item of the TUQ had agreement or strong agreement from the majority of respondents. Compared with non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Asian identity was associated with lower usability in three domains and overall, and non-Hispanic Black identity was associated with higher satisfaction and future use. As compared with caregivers of infants younger than 1 year, caregivers of older patients reported lower usability in the three domains. Conclusions: Telemedicine was successfully implemented across 18 ambulatory pediatric specialties in the largest health system in New York State at the onset of COVID-19, and caregivers found it usable and acceptable. Usability scores did not vary by visit-level characteristics but did vary by race/ethnicity and age. Further research is necessary to identify modifiable drivers of the patient experience, particularly in non-Hispanic Asian communities and older adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle W Katzow
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Institute for Health Systems Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Caren Steinway
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Errica Capossela
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, Rady Children's Hospital, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jack Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Victoria Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Talia Fenster
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Nirupa Galagedera
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Megan Hamill
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Elaine Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Erica Mamauag
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shannon Moriarty
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Shivany Pathania
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Brown University/Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Lyndsey Pliskin
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Asher Ripp
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Avy Ronay
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Maria T Santiago
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Margaret Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sophia Jan
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Queens, New York, USA
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Naik N, Talyshinskii A, Rassweiler J, Hameed BMZ, Somani BK. Digital health innovations in urology: telemedicine, wearables, and mobile applications - a systematic review of literature. Curr Opin Urol 2024; 34:116-127. [PMID: 38038411 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There are enough publications on the use of telemedicine, wearable devices, and mobile applications in urology; however, their collective impact on urological care has not been adequately studied. This review seeks to address this deficiency by providing a descriptive analysis of the recent use of telemedicine, wearable technology, and mobile applications in urology as well as elucidating their associated challenges. RECENT FINDINGS There are studies that were dedicated to the use of telemedicine, wearables, and mobile apps in urology according to inclusion criteria, respectively. They were successfully implemented in different urological subfields, such as urogynecology, endourology, pediatric urology, and uro-oncology, and led to time safety, remote monitoring, and better patient awareness. However, several concerns also exist, such as issues with data safety, measurement deviations, technical limitations, and lack ofquality. SUMMARY Telemedicine, wearables, and mobile apps have already shown their potential in urological practice. However, further studies are needed to expand both our understanding of their current state and their potential for further development and clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithesh Naik
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Ali Talyshinskii
- Department of Urology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Jens Rassweiler
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, SLK Kliniken Heilbronn, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B M Zeeshan Hameed
- Department of Urology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Bhaskar K Somani
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
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Du Y, Gu Y. The development of evaluation scale of the patient satisfaction with telemedicine: a systematic review. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2024; 24:31. [PMID: 38303031 PMCID: PMC10832124 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-024-02436-z] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine become more and more popular, patients attempt to use telemedicine to meet personal medical needs. Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of insight into the patient experience. PURPOSE This systematic review aims to explore the measurement factors of patient satisfaction with telemedicine and develop a more comprehensive and systematic scale of patient satisfaction with telemedicine. METHODS In February 2023, a literature search was conducted on the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science, identifying measurement factors and tools of patient satisfaction with telemedicine. For inclusion, the studies had to have or make a questionnaire about patient satisfaction with telemedicine delivered through video/audio visits in English. The quality of the studies was evaluated according to the Critical Appraisal Tool for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The dimensions and items in each tool were also analyzed. RESULTS The initial search showed 14,020 studies. After eliminating duplicates and utilizing inclusion and exclusion criteria, 44 studies were included. This systematic review identified and integrated the measurement factors and develops a scale of patient satisfaction with telemedicine, which was divided into 9 dimensions and consists of 37 items. CONCLUSION Future measurement and evaluation of telemedicine will benefit from scale that was developed in this study, and it will more directly reflecting patient needs when patient satisfaction with telemedicine is evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Du
- Department of Medical Information Technology and Management, Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Gu
- Department of Medical Information Technology and Management, Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Benítez TM, Kim YJ, Kong L, Wang L, Chung KC. Impact of consensus guideline publication on the timing of elective pediatric umbilical hernia repair. Surgery 2023; 174:1281-1289. [PMID: 37586892 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2023.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The American Academy of Pediatrics published consensus guidelines advising observation of asymptomatic umbilical hernias until age 4 or 5, given unnecessary risks of early intervention and substantial practice variation. Yet, the impact of guidelines on early repair (age <4) or if certain groups remain at risk for avoidable intervention is unclear. METHODS This retrospective study used data from children's hospitals participating in the Pediatric Health Information System database. Children aged 17 years and younger who underwent umbilical hernia repair from July 2017 to August 2022 were eligible for inclusion. Children with recurrent hernias, an emergency, or urgent presentation were excluded. An interrupted time series using segmented multivariable logistic regression estimated the association of guideline publication in November 2019 with the odds of guideline-adherent repair (age ≥4) after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and hospital-level random effects. RESULTS 16,544 children underwent repair, of which 3,115 (18.8%) were children <4 years old. After adjustment, guideline publication was associated with an immediate increase in guideline-adherent repairs (odds ratio = 1.25 95% confidence interval = 1.05-1.49). The interrupted time series found that each month after publication was associated with a 2% increase in the odds of guideline-adherent repair (odds ratio = 1.02, 95% confidence interval = 1.01-1.03). Children with public insurance were nearly 20% less likely to receive guideline-adherent repair than privately insured children (odds ratio = 0.82, 95% confidence interval = 0.74-0.91). Children in the Midwest had lower odds of guideline-adherent repair (Midwest versus Northeast: odds ratio = 0.45. 95% confidence interval = 0.24-0.84). CONCLUSION Guideline publication was associated with greater odds of guideline-adherent repair, yet public insurance coverage and Midwest location remain significant predictors of early repair against recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trista M Benítez
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI; Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI. https://www.twitter.com/benitez_trista
| | - You J Kim
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI; Rush University Medical College, Chicago, IL. https://www.twitter.com/kim_youj
| | - Lingxuan Kong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kevin C Chung
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI.
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Zachrison KS, Yan Z, White BA, Park L, Schwamm LH. Factors Associated with the Digital Patient Experience of Virtual Care Across Specialties. TELEMEDICINE REPORTS 2023; 4:227-235. [PMID: 37637376 PMCID: PMC10457601 DOI: 10.1089/tmr.2023.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Background We aimed to characterize patient experience with virtual care across medical specialties using validated survey data. Primary objective: to determine whether experience varied by visit modality (virtual vs. in-person) and whether relationships persisted after adjusting for patient and provider characteristics. Secondarily, among physicians with sufficient data, we compared virtual versus in-person patient experience scores at the physician level and identified characteristics associated with better experience scores for virtual care. Methods This was a retrospective analysis of administrative databases from a large New England health care system, including all ambulatory visits from October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021 with patient experience scores recorded. We compared experience between virtual and in-person at the visit level (score: 0-10) and the physician level for likelihood of recommending the physician to friends or family. We used a series of cross-classified hierarchical models with visits grouped by patient and by physician to decompose sources of variation. Among physicians with sufficient data, we compared physicians with higher virtual versus higher in-person net promoter score (NPS). Results Of 378,472 visits performed by 3368 physicians, 86,878 (23%) were conducted virtually. Most scored ≥9 for either modality, with a small preference for virtual versus in-person care (9.6 vs. 9.5, p < 0.001). We found that more variation in scores was explained by patient than by physician (22.9% vs. 3%). Visit modality was of minimal explanatory value. Most physicians' virtual and in-person NPS were similar, and virtual visit volume was not associated. Conclusions We found robust evidence for the parity of patient experience between virtual and in-person modalities across specialties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kori S. Zachrison
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zhiyu Yan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Benjamin A. White
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lee Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Mass General Brigham, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lee H. Schwamm
- Mass General Brigham, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Rosenlund M, Kinnunen UM, Saranto K. The Use of Digital Health Services Among Patients and Citizens Living at Home: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44711. [PMID: 36972122 PMCID: PMC10131924 DOI: 10.2196/44711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of digital health services reflects not only the technical development of services but also a change in attitude and the way of thinking. It has become a cornerstone for engaging and activating patients and citizens in health management while living at home. Digital health services are also aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of services, while simultaneously providing services more cost-effectively. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated worldwide the development and use of digital services in response to requirements for social distancing and other regulations. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to identify and summarize how digital health services are being used among patients and citizens while living at home. METHODS The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews was used as guidance. A search conducted in 3 databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus) resulted in 419 papers. The reporting was conducted by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR), and the analysis of the included papers was performed using a framework consisting of 5 clusters describing the use of digital health services. After screening and excluding papers that did not match the inclusion criteria, 88 (21%) papers from 2010 to 2022 were included in the final analysis. RESULTS Results indicated that digital health services are used in different situations and among different kinds of populations. In most studies, digital health services were used in the form of video visits or consultations. The telephone was also used regularly for consultations. Other services, such as remote monitoring and transmitting of recorded information and the use the of internet or portals for searching information, were observed as well. Alerts, emergency systems, and reminders were observed to offer possibilities of use, for example, among older people. The digital health services also showed to have potential for use in patient education. CONCLUSIONS The development of digital services reflects a shift toward the provision of care regardless of time and place. It also reflects a shift toward emphasis on patient-centered care, meaning activating and engaging patients in their own care as they use digital services for various health-related purposes. Despite the development of digital services, many challenges (eg, adequate infrastructure) still prevail worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milla Rosenlund
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ulla-Mari Kinnunen
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- The Finnish Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kaija Saranto
- Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- The Finnish Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Helsinki, Finland
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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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Olateju A, Cervantes M, Dowshen N, Kuhns LM, Dhar CP. Acceptability of Telemedicine Among Parents of Adolescent Patients in an Adolescent Clinic: Cross-sectional Survey Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2022; 5:e39704. [PMID: 36542447 PMCID: PMC9813812 DOI: 10.2196/39704] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, new literature has described the perceptions of adolescent patients on the use of telemedicine for their health care, but less attention has been devoted to parents' and caregivers' perspectives on telemedicine usage for their adolescents. Parents' perspectives are important, as they undoubtedly influence how children learn to make decisions about their health care. OBJECTIVE This study describes the level of acceptability (measured based on accessibility and satisfaction) expressed by caregivers of adolescent patients with regard to telemedicine visits in an urban adolescent medicine practice. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was sent electronically to parents and guardians of patients aged <18 years who completed outpatient telemedicine visits to an adolescent medicine practice in Chicago, Illinois, from March 2020 to February 2021. The questions focused on accessibility and satisfaction. The data were analyzed to describe response frequencies. RESULTS Among a sample of 71 survey respondents, the vast majority reported that telemedicine was very easy to use (58/71, 82%) and was at least as convenient as in-person visits (70/71, 99%). Over 90% of respondents reported that their adolescents' needs were addressed (69/69, 100%) and that they were at least as comfortable with the level of privacy and the confidential conversations between their adolescents and medical providers in telemedicine visits (65/71, 92%) as they were with those in in-person visits. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that parents and guardians find telemedicine to be an acceptable way for their children and adolescents to receive appropriate health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adetola Olateju
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Marbella Cervantes
- Ann and Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Nadia Dowshen
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Craig-Dalsimer Division of Adolescent Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lisa M Kuhns
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Ann and Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Cherie Priya Dhar
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Ann and Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Virtual Access to Subspecialty Care. Prim Care 2022; 49:557-573. [PMCID: PMC9581700 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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12
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Wang HHS, Xu R, Nelson CP, Campbell J, Estrada CR, Kurtz MP. Hybrid Clinics: A New Model for Ambulatory Care to Reduce Infection Risk. Telemed J E Health 2022; 29:560-568. [PMID: 36036799 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the viability of a hybrid clinic model combining in-person examination with video-based consultation to minimize viral transmission risk. Methods: Data were collected prospectively in a pediatric urology clinic for in-person visits from January to April 2018 ("classic") and hybrid visits from October to December 2020 of the COVID-19 pandemic ("hybrid"). Variables included provider, diagnosis, patient type, time of day, prior surgery, postoperative status, and decision-making for surgery. The primary outcome was "room time" or time in-person. The secondary outcome was "total time" or visit duration. Proportion of visits involving close contact (room time ≥15 min) was assessed. Univariate analyses were performed using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and Fisher's exact test. Mixed models were fitted for visit approach and other covariates as fixed effects and provider as random effect. Results: Data were collected for 346 visits (256 classic, 90 hybrid). Hybrid visits were associated with less room time (median 3 min vs. 10 min, p < 0.001) but greater total time (median 13.5 min vs. 10 min, p = 0.001) as compared with classic visits. On multivariate analysis, hybrid visits were associated with 3 min less room time (95% confidence intervals [CIs]: -5.3 to -1.7, p < 0.001) but 3.8 min more total time (95% CI: 1.5-6.1, p = 0.001). Close contact occurred in 6.7% of hybrid visits, as compared with 34.8% of classic visits (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Hybrid clinic visits reduce room time as compared with classic visits. This approach overcomes the examination limitations of telemedicine while minimizing viral transmission, and represents a viable model for ambulatory care whenever close contact carries infection risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Hsiao S Wang
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rena Xu
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caleb P Nelson
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie Campbell
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos R Estrada
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael P Kurtz
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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Gudipudi R, Jungbauer WN, Brennan E, Pecha PP. Parent and provider satisfaction of telehealth in pediatric surgical subspecialty care: A systematic review. J Telemed Telecare 2022:1357633X221110368. [PMID: 35850559 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221110368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Telehealth is becoming an increasingly common presence in health care, particularly amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We aimed to investigate ways in which telehealth has been implemented in pediatric surgical specialties, as well as the success and satisfaction rates of these interventions. METHODS A systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases for telehealth and pediatric surgical specialties on August 20th, 2021. There were 1227 studies screened and 17 studies met final inclusion criteria for patient, parent/guardian, or physician satisfaction measures of a telehealth intervention in the United States. RESULTS Studies implementing telehealth interventions included all major pediatric surgical subspecialties with a total of 2926 patients. Of the 17 studies, common themes were the use of telehealth for synchronous video and/or telephone virtual visits, including comparing virtual visits to in-person clinic visits (nine studies) and postoperative virtual visits (six studies). Telehealth was also used in the perioperative setting to deliver care instructions via mobile application or text message (two studies). Telehealth interventions had a high rate of parent satisfaction (75%-98%), and 57%-75% of parents stated they would choose or prefer virtual appointments in the future, often citing travel and cost savings as benefits. Provider satisfaction was also high with satisfaction scores ranging from 7.5 to 9.4/10. DISCUSSION This systematic review suggests that both parent and physician satisfaction with telehealth in pediatric surgical specialties is generally high. Expanding telehealth applications allow greater access to care, particularly for specialized surgical services which often pose significant costs and travel burdens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachana Gudipudi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2345Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Walter Nicholas Jungbauer
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2345Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Emily Brennan
- Department of Research and Education Services, 2345Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Phayvanh P Pecha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2345Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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14
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Juul N, Cazals A, Hofmann A, Amesty V, Verkauskas G, Dobrowolska-Glazar B, Holmdahl G, Escolino M, Birraux J, Kovacs T, Kalfa N, Fossum M. How the First Year of COVID-19 Affected Elective Pediatric Urology Patients: A Longitudinal Study Based on Waiting Lists and Surveys From 10 European Centers. Front Public Health 2022; 10:874758. [PMID: 35570885 PMCID: PMC9096088 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.874758] [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: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 impacted healthcare systems worldwide, and elective surgical activity was brought to a minimum. Although children were not primarily affected by the disease, pediatric urology was halted by clinical closedown and staff allocation. We aimed to document how these prioritizations affected waiting lists, and to investigate how European centers dealt with the challenge of these logistical and financial prioritizations. Materials and Methods This was a 1-year prospective study, starting March 2020. Participants were surveyed at 3-month intervals about waiting lists for several common procedures as well as OR capacity and funding. Further, centers retrospectively reported on surgical and outpatient activity rates during 2019–2021. Waiting list tendencies were evaluated in relation to study baseline. Results A marked decrease in surgical and outpatient activity was seen in the spring of 2020. Some included pediatric urology centers were able to increase their budget (15%) and staff working hours (20%) during part of the study period. Still, at the end of the study, the centers had increased the total number of patients on waiting lists with 11%, whereas the average days on waiting lists had accumulated with 73%, yielding a total of 6,102 accumulated waiting days in the study population. Centers with decreased resources had markedly negative effects on waiting lists. Conclusions Correlations between COVID-19 derived burdening of healthcare systems and the availability of pediatric urology greatly depends on the prioritizations made at individual centers. Ongoing monitoring of these correlations is warranted to safely avoid unnecessary negative impact on the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Juul
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Rigshospitalet Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Aurélie Cazals
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologique Pédiatrique, Hôpital Lapeyronie, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Aybike Hofmann
- Department of Pediatric Urology, KUNO Clinic St. Hedwig, University Medical Center, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Virginia Amesty
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gilvydas Verkauskas
- Children's Surgery, Orthopedics and Traumatology Center, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Gundela Holmdahl
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Escolino
- Pediatric Surgery and Urology Unit, Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Jacques Birraux
- Service de Chirurgie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Centre Universitaire romand de Chirurgie Pédiatrique, Hôpitaux Universitaire de Genève, Genève, Switzerland
| | - Tamas Kovacs
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Pediatrics, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Nicolas Kalfa
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologique Pédiatrique, Hôpital Lapeyronie, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Université de Montpellier, Institut Debrest de Santé Publique IDESP, UMR INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Magdalena Fossum
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Rigshospitalet Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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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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16
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ElAgami H, Woodward B, Awolaran G, Kalidasan V. Virtual consultation in paediatric urology during the COVID-19 pandemic: The effect of pathology on the outcome. J Telemed Telecare 2022; 28:539-546. [PMID: 35253528 PMCID: PMC8902319 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221076967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Virtual consultation (VC) has exponentially increased during the COVID-19
pandemic. Lessons from using this modality during the pandemic will need to
be appraised carefully before integrating it into the routine practice. Some
paediatric urology patients can potentially be excellent candidates for
routine VC. Objectives Investigate the ability of clinicians to make management plans using VCs and
identify accordingly the group of patients that can benefit from routine VC.
Evaluate the routine use of VC without travel restrictions. Methods Designed in two phases. Phase 1, during the lockdown, prospective collection
of data after the consultation assessing the clinician satisfaction in
making a decision by VC. The results were then divided according to the
patient pathology; internal organ pathology (IOP), functional urological
pathology (FUP) or external organ pathology (EOP). Data was then analysed to
demonstrate if different outcomes can be related to the pathology. Phase 2
after the ease of the lockdown to judge the lessons learnt looking at the
same parameters in patients who are selected to receive VC and evaluate
journey saved by the patients, measured in miles. Results One hundred and forty-four consultations were assessed. One hundred and
fourteen in phase 1 and 30 from phase 2. Mean age 7.2 years. In phase 1, 57%
of patients were reviewed by consultants and 72% were followed up.
Thirty-seven per cent had IOP, 24.5% FUP and 38.5% EOP. Clinicians were more
likely to reach a decision with patients with IOP and FUP
P < 0.0001 and 0.0024, respectively. Phase 2
demonstrated the change of practice where 93% of the patients were either
IOP or FUP. An average of 27 miles per patient was saved on journeys. Discussion VC for paediatric urology patients was employed effectively to avoid hospital
contact during the lockdown. From the lessons learnt that patients with IOP
and FUP can continue to benefit from VC after the ease of lockdown without
compromising the decision making. VC is a viable way to structure services
in the future for selected paediatric urology conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham ElAgami
- University Hospital Sussex, Royal Alexandra Children Hospital, Brighton, UK
| | - Benjamin Woodward
- University Hospital Sussex, Royal Alexandra Children Hospital, Brighton, UK
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17
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Testosterone replacement therapy in the era of telemedicine. Int J Impot Res 2022; 34:663-668. [PMID: 34799712 PMCID: PMC8604198 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-021-00498-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The events of the 2019 SARS-CoV2 virus pandemic have all but ensured that telemedicine will remain an important aspect of patient care delivery. As health technologies evolve, so must physician practices. Currently, there is limited data on the management of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in the era of telemedicine. This review aims to explore the potential benefits and pitfalls of TRT management via telemedicine. We also propose a theoretical framework for TRT management via telemedicine. Telemedicine provides patients and physicians with a new mechanism for American Urological Association guideline-concordant TRT management that can increase patient access to care and provide a safe space for men who may otherwise not have been comfortable with in-person evaluation. However, there are significant limitations to the use of telemedicine for the management of TRT, including the inability to perform a physical exam, inability to administer specific medications, technological barriers, data security, and medical-legal considerations, and both patients and providers should engage in shared decision making before pursuing this approach. Understanding and acknowledging the potential pitfalls of telemedicine for TRT management will enable both patients and providers to achieve optimal outcomes and satisfaction.
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18
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Jones E, Kurman J, Delia E, Crockett J, Peterson R, Thames J, Salorio C, Kalb L, Jacobson L, Stone J, Zabel TA. Parent Satisfaction With Outpatient Telemedicine Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:908337. [PMID: 36090558 PMCID: PMC9453196 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.908337] [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: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the development of hospital-based telemedicine services had been slow and circumscribed in scope due to insurance and licensure restrictions. As these restrictions were eased during the COVID-19 pandemic to facilitate ongoing patient care, the public health emergency facilitated a rapid expansion and utilization of telemedicine services across the ambulatory service sector. Objectives The current quality improvement (QI) study utilized this unprecedented opportunity to evaluate the use of telemedicine services across a variety of clinical disciplines and patient groups. Methods Caregivers of patients (ages 0-21) who received care through an outpatient specialty center provided experience ratings of telemedicine services delivered during the initial pandemic months (March-June 2020; N = 1311) or during the national "winter surge" in late 2020 (November 2020-February 2021; N = 1395). Questionnaires were distributed electronically following the clinical visits, and ANCOVA was employed (with patient age as the covariate) to determine if caregiver responses differed based on patient demographic characteristics. Results Ratings of patient satisfaction with services were very strong at both time points; greater variability in scores was noted when caregivers were asked if they would use telemedicine services again. At both time points, younger patient age (i.e., age 0-5) was associated with decreased caregiver willingness to use telemedicine services in the future. Smaller effects were seen for certain "hands on" therapies (occupational, physical, and speech) during the initial months of the pandemic and for proximity to the hospital during the "winter surge." Conclusions These data suggest a very positive overall caregiver response to telemedicine-based services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several areas of potential improvement/innovation were identified, including the delivery of telemedicine therapies (e.g., occupational, physical, and speech) services to young patients (i.e., aged 0-5).
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Jones
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jaime Kurman
- Office of Patient Experience and Community Engagement, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Elisa Delia
- Administration, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer Crockett
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rachel Peterson
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jasmin Thames
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Cynthia Salorio
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Luther Kalb
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Lisa Jacobson
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jacqueline Stone
- Administration, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - T Andrew Zabel
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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