The impact of COVID-19 on urology office visits and adoption of telemedicine services

Abstract

Purpose of reviewThe purpose of this review article is to discuss the impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the evolution of telemedicine use for urology office visits. Recent findingsThe COVID-19 pandemic has caused a dramatic change in the delivery of healthcare. Fraught with numerous barriers previously, the need for healthcare delivery during a time of social distancing and increased healthcare requirements drove the adoption of telemedicine forward. This 'trial period' over the last year has allowed us to appreciate the potential utility of telehealth-associated services in practice and consider its role even after the pandemic. Multiple studies equating its utility to in-person visits whereas simultaneously providing added convenience and cost-related savings have been published in the urologic literature. Permanent regulatory changes will need to be implemented to allow us the flexibility to use telehealth in the future.

Virtual medicine in urology: Is it here to stay?

“…8 Other studies have found that some patients preferred telemedicine, owing to spending less time waiting to see practitioners, travelling to appointments, and eliminating the need to find transportation to attend appointments. [9][10][11][12] Despite not being face-to-face, the majority of patients voice that they were able to adequately communicate their uncomplicated medical concerns over virtual means and have them understood or addressed by their physicians. 9 Medical practitioners have also reported high satisfaction rates with the adoption of telemedicine.…”

“…13 Many clinics have also reported a decrease in wait times to see practitioners, likely owing to the increased efficiency of virtual models of care. 10,12 However, there are limitations to virtual medicine in urology that have been identified. Some patients regard face-to-face interactions as an important way to foster a trusting, therapeutic relationship.…”

“…9,14 Furthermore, in some instances, it is essential for physicians to carry out detailed physical exams or diagnostic procedures, such as cystoscopy. 9,10 There are also logistical barriers to telemedicine; for example, upfront acquisition costs for clinics to become technologically capable of telemedicine, including acquiring technology that is compatible with existing databases, and ensuring their compliance with local and provincial privacy laws. 10,15 Furthermore, some patients may not have access to a telemedicine-capable devices, adequate connectivity, or possess the technological literacy to participate in virtual care.…”

“…9,10 There are also logistical barriers to telemedicine; for example, upfront acquisition costs for clinics to become technologically capable of telemedicine, including acquiring technology that is compatible with existing databases, and ensuring their compliance with local and provincial privacy laws. 10,15 Furthermore, some patients may not have access to a telemedicine-capable devices, adequate connectivity, or possess the technological literacy to participate in virtual care. 9,10,16 This is especially noted to be the case in older adults and marginalized populations, who tend to already have poorer health outcomes.…”

“…10,15 Furthermore, some patients may not have access to a telemedicine-capable devices, adequate connectivity, or possess the technological literacy to participate in virtual care. 9,10,16 This is especially noted to be the case in older adults and marginalized populations, who tend to already have poorer health outcomes. 16…”