Warning: file_get_contents(https://eutils.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&id=33478853&cmd=llinks): Failed to open stream: HTTP request failed! HTTP/1.1 429 Too Many Requests
in C:\Inetpub\vhosts\kidney.de\httpdocs\pget.php on line 215
Neurologists perceptions of utilising tele-neurology to practice remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic #MMPMID33478853
Courtney E; Blackburn D; Reuber M
Patient Educ Couns 2021[Mar]; 104 (3): 452-459 PMID33478853show ga
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 Zoom(R), 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.