The Impact and Feasibility of a Student-led Program to Connect Patients and Caregivers via Synchronous Audiovisual Technology During Restricted Visitation Policies

Abstract

OBJECTIVE During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, hospital visitation restrictions hindered patients’ access to vital social support. This study explores the impact and feasibility of a student-led program facilitating audiovisual communication between inpatient rehabilitation patients and their caregivers. METHODS The study design employed a prospective observational approach, and convenience sampling enrolled 99 participants, including 33 patients, 33 caregivers, and 33 medical students. From September 2021 to March 2022, eligible patients admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation hospital identified a caregiver and participated in a 30-minute audiovisual call organized by a medical student. Post-visit surveys via RedCap were completed by all participants and covered limitations in video calls, program benefits, comfort levels in video conferencing, and overall program ratings. The study adopted a quantitative research paradigm for data analysis. Statistical analysis utilized pairwise McNemar's and Wilcoxon's test for inter-group comparison. RESULTS Patients, caregivers, and medical students all reported positive outcomes in program offerings including providing social support, decreasing feelings of isolation, and providing a feeling of connection. Patients rated the program 4.82 ± 0.47 on a Likert scale, with 97% recommending it to others, even beyond visitation restrictions. The most common diagnosis among patients was stroke (30%), highlighting the program's potential applicability across diverse patient populations. Caregivers rated the program 4.59 ± 0.87 and expressed a desire for its continuation post-restrictions (80%). Medical students (81%) recommended the program, citing benefits in reducing social isolation and gaining clinical experience. No statistical differences were observed between groups in emotional and humanistic domains. CONCLUSION This study highlights the potential for programs to utilize technology to address social isolation in the healthcare setting. When public health restrictions occur, medical educators should consider opportunities to support and foster innovation for student-led programs. Further research should explore broader impacts on healthcare outcomes and medical education.