Telehealth Experiences of Autonomic Dysfunction and Parkinson's Disease Patients

Abstract

Objective We aim to characterize the telehealth care experiences of autonomic dysfunction and Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Background Telemedicine is a popular modality for receiving healthcare. Due to its rising use, ensuring efficacy, satisfaction, and safety is important. Current literature finds high satisfaction, benefitted physical and emotional health, and desired feasibility amongst PD patients. While results are promising, there still exists a dearth of literature describing the experiences of autonomic dysfunction patients as a whole and including qualitative data in analysis of care experiences. Design/Methods We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study using anonymous, survey responses from autonomic dysfunction and PD patients within a large health system. The study questionnaire included both Likert-scale prompts and open responses. Quantitative and qualitative data analyses were incorporated in discussed findings. Results Twenty-five patients with either autonomic dysfunction or PD diagnoses who successfully completed the questionnaire were included. Over 80% of participants were confidently able to access medical appointments and providers via telehealth services. 88% accessed telehealth services without others’ assistance. Conversely, 68% did not agree that telehealth appointments were accessible during impacted internet connection. 92% of respondents, however, felt satisfied with the quality of care from telehealth appointments, with 76% finding the care comparable to in-person visits. Notably, 76% experienced improved care access to care and also had their needs met from telehealth. Among open responses, 43% highlighted how physical barriers and distance hindered in-person attendance. Four responses discussed affected fine motor movements limiting telehealth access. Three preferred in-person appointments, denoting the importance of thorough physical exams. Conclusions Telehealth effectively meets autonomic dysfunction and PD patients’ needs comparably to in-person visits, improves access to care, and delivers high satisfaction. This modality still proves inadequate during limited internet connection and for those with impacted fine motor skills. While telehealth holds promising utility for autonomic dysfunction and PD patients’ care, continued study into furthering accessibility for patients of all abilities and technological constraints is still warranted.