The Evolving Role of Telemedicine in the Care of Patients With Connective Tissue Diseases

Abstract

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine (TM) has become an essential resource for connecting patients and providers and is regularly used in medical care. TM refers to the use of medical information obtained via electronic communications and includes mobile health applications, telephone triage, and video-based clinical encounters. Throughout this editorial, the term TM will refer to video-based clinical encounters. TM offers advantages in terms of access to care and cost savings; however, more evidence is needed on the efficacy of TM, the standardization of virtual visits, and guidance for optimal use in rheumatology. The purpose of this editorial is to review the use of TM in the care of patients with connective tissue diseases (CTDs), particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and how it has affected patient care.