Bara VB, Schoeler N, Carroll JH, Simpson Z, Cameron T. Patient and carer perspectives on the use of video consultations in the management of the ketogenic diet for epilepsy.
Epilepsy Behav 2023;
145:109280. [PMID:
37315407 PMCID:
PMC10259179 DOI:
10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109280]
[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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant change in the way healthcare was delivered worldwide. During this time, a survey of Ketogenic Dietitians Research Network (KDRN) members found that all respondents expected digital platforms for clinics and/or education to continue post-pandemic. As a follow-up to this, we surveyed views about video consultations (VCs) of patients and carers of those following the ketogenic diet for drug-resistant epilepsy.
METHODS
The SurveymonkeyTM survey was distributed on Matthews' Friends and KDRN social media platforms and emailed from five United Kingdom ketogenic diet centers to their patients/carers.
RESULTS
Forty eligible responses were received. More than half of the respondents (23, 57.5%) had attended a VC. Eighteen respondents (45%) would like to have VCs for most (categorized as approximately 75%) or all of their consultations. Half as many (9, 22.5%) would not like video consultations. The most common benefits selected were saving travel time (32, 80%), less stress of finding somewhere to park and not having to take time off work (22, 55% each). Twelve (30%) responded that VCs lessened environmental impact. The most common disadvantages selected were not being able to get blood tests/having to make a separate consultation for blood tests (22, 55% overall), not being able to get weight or height checked/having to make a separate consultation for this and it is less personal/preferring face-to-face (17, 42.5% each). Three-quarters (30 respondents) felt it would be very easy or easy to accurately weigh the patient when not attending an in-person consultation.
CONCLUSION
Our results suggest that many patients and carers would welcome the option of VCs as well as face-to-face consultations. Where possible and appropriate patients and their families should be offered both options. This is in line with the NHS Long-Term Plan and the NHS response to climate change.
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