P139 Evaluating the impact of a telemedicine service during the COVID-19 pandemic in people with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Introduction: To provide continuity of care during the COVID-19 pandemic, our large adult CF unit implemented a telemedicine service in order that people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) - categorised as ‘extremely clinically vulnerable’ in the UK – could access clinicians during periods of shielding. Here we report their opinions of and engagement with the service during the early pandemic. Methods: A total of 44 consecutive pwCF attending virtual clinics completed a 23-part survey composed of free text and rating scale questions to evaluate the impact of the telemedicine service and the pandemic on their CF care. We also compared telemedicine and face-to-face (FTF) appointment attendance rates during the pandemic. Results: Feedback was generally positive (see Table). The main areas of constructive criticism revolved around audio and visual quality, as well as connectivity issues associated with use of mobile devices to access the telemedicine portal. Positive comments of the telemedicine clinic included no travel requirements, and no risk of cross-infection. Between July and October 2020, attendance was higher at FTF appointments than telemedicine (166/186 vs 417/513, Chi-squared p = 0.01). [Table Presented]] Conclusions: The telemedicine service is generally popular with pwCF, and engagement with the service has been good. Clinicians need to be aware that technology issues may hamper appointment attendance and interaction for some users.