Abstract WP329: Video Conferencing is the Preferred Method for Follow-up Communication for Post-hospital Stroke Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Close communication with a stroke patient after discharge from a comprehensive stroke center has been shown to be crucial for medication compliance, follow up care and improving patient satisfaction. We aimed to improve post-hospitalization compliance and patient satisfaction by assessing if a video call as a routine follow-up communication modality would be the preferred method of communication. Methods: Admitted stroke patients were asked for their preference in post-hospitalization communications with their attending physician. Results: A total of 52 stroke patients were interviewed, 30 (57.7%) requested a video call, 22 (42.3%) requested a phone call. 100% (14/14) ages 55 and younger requested a video call. 70.3% (19/27) of patients 65 years old and younger requested a video call. Conclusion: There is evidently a strong demand for video conferencing as a method of follow-up communication among the post hospitalized stroke population. Although age appears to influence the demand, the majority of patients expressed greater enthusiasm with the concept of video conferencing. Follow-up video communication could improve patient medication, treatment compliance, risk factor reduction and ultimately improve patient care and satisfaction. Video calls will also provide additional visual information that a routine phone call would miss, potentially reducing readmissions. Therefore, with advancing technology and the strong desire for video conferencing, one should begin to think of ways to provide this service.