Tele-OPD: Bridging distance between Clinician and Patient

Abstract

Background: The use of mobile devices has become increasingly universal in almost every aspect of life, including emerging use in healthcare, which encompasses diverse issues to solve clinical problems and promote public health initiatives in pioneering ways. Wide availability of Mobile phones with low call rates and smart phone applications like Skype, WhatsApp can be used as means of communication between the consultant and patient. Methods: The study is an observational retrospective study conducted in the Department of Plastic Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry from April 2015 to May 2016. The tele -OPD consisted use of telephonic conversations, video conferencing, mail, whatsApp etc. At the end of the study period, the feedback was obtained from consultants, patients and analyzed. Results: In the 1 year study period, 2048 telephonic calls were made to patients, 1806 calls were received from patients, 126 WhatsApp messages, 118 emails received and 20 Skype calls were done. On taking feedback from patients & Consultant it was found to be patient friendly, inexpensive and time saving. An internal record of all the patients phone numbers, email ids were noted down in a register. Conclusion: Tele-OPD is found to be a promising method of communication, especially in nonemergency situations where the patient doesn’t have to physically come to OPD but might need some advice or information regarding treatment. It is Userfriendly, time saving and cost-effective means to obtain consultation in less time-critical contexts.