Neurologists' perceptions of utilising tele-neurology to practice remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic

PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING

卷:104

Article

Courtney, Ellie¹  Blackburn, Daniel²  Reuber, Markus² 

[1] Univ Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, S Yorkshire, England

[2] Univ Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hosp, Acad Neurol Unit, Glossop Rd, Sheffield S10 2JF, S Yorkshire, England

关键词: Tele-neurology;    Telemedicine;    COVID-19;    Remote;    Telephone;    Videophone;   

DOI  :  10.1016/j.pec.2020.12.027

来源: Elsevier

【 摘 要 】

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic enforced an almost complete switch from face-to-face clinical work to tele-neurology. This study explores neurologists' perceptions of telephone and videophone remote consultations. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with neurologists and a GP with a specialist interest (n = 22). Interviews were conducted remotely via Zoom1, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using the principles of thematic analysis. Results: Four main themes emerged: 'unknown unknowns (risks/uncertainties)', 'better service', 'challenges', and 'beyond the pandemic'. Thematic saturation was achieved by interview 19. Participants highlighted a number of benefits of remote consultations but over 80% also complained of a reduction in work satisfaction. Conclusion: The sudden introduction of tele-neurology is unlikely to be fully reversed when pandemic-related restrictions have been lifted. However, this study confirms tele-neurology cannot completely replace face-to-face consultations. Some patient groups and consultation types require direct contact. Moreover, significant administrative and infrastructural investment will be required to develop the full potential of tele-neurology. Practice implications: Tele-medicine is capable of improving access and efficiency of specialist neurology services, but limited by lack of non-verbal communication and technical problems. It could enhance service provision with sufficient infrastructural and administrative investment, but may reduce neurologists' job statisfaction. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

【 授权许可】

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