Robblee J. Telemedicine in Headache Medicine: A Narrative Review.
Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023;
27:371-377. [PMID:
37515743 DOI:
10.1007/s11916-023-01141-2]
[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] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
The purpose of the study is to review and discuss the use of telemedicine in headache medicine.
RECENT FINDINGS
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telemedicine for headache was most common in Europe. In recent years, however, telemedicine has been used broadly within headache medicine, including for pediatric patients and behavioral interventions. Several randomized clinical trials have shown that telemedicine is non-inferior to face-to-face visits. Multiple studies have reported substantial benefits associated with telemedicine, including high satisfaction rates, improved access to headache specialists, reduced travel, quicker visits, greater cost-effectiveness, reduced wait times, reduced no-show rates, and the increased comfort of remaining in one's home environment. The main limitation reported is the lack of a physical examination, including fundus assessment. Telemedicine has become a vital tool in headache patient care, with the data supporting its use for patient follow-up in particular.
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