Telehealth: A new paradigm? Paediatric surgical subspecialty telemedicine survey in the COVID-19 Pandemic at a tertiary care centre

Abstract

Background: Although the technology has been available and several pilot studies have shown success, use of telemedicine has previously been limited in the United States, especially among surgeons. This study aimed to investigate the benefits and obstacles for successful implementation of telemedicine visits in paediatric surgical subspecialties amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We analysed survey data from telemedicine visits with paediatric surgical subspecialists from May 1 through June 30, 2020 at our paediatric surgery subspecialty clinics. Univariate logistic regression was used to determine associations in survey responses and various demographic factors. Results: There were 164 respondents to the survey. The most frequently cited barrier to care was ability to get time off work (46.3%). Overall satisfaction with the telemedicine visit was 93.8%, and 55.6% responded that they would choose video telemedicine rather than an in-person or telephone visit. Those living at least 25 miles from the hospital had increased odds of indicating interest in using telemedicine for future visits (OR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.12–5.86, p = 0.026). The average respondent saved between 30 minutes and 1 hour, and 45 minutes using telemedicine. Conclusions: The implementation of telemedicine at our institution in the paediatric surgical subspecialties has proven to be effective and well-received. Given the benefits of time and money saved for families, paired with high satisfaction rates and continued interest, paediatric surgical subspecialists should work to incorporate virtual visits into regular patient care, even well after the COVID-19 pandemic. Level of Evidence: Level IV