Abstract
Study designProspective observational.ObjectivesTo explore participants’ experience, satisfaction, and utility of telemedicine.SettingSpinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation clinic at a county hospital.MethodsParticipants in this study received telemedicine appointments for routine scheduled care and/or urgent consults with a spinal cord injury specialist via iPad on FaceTime. Demographic changes, health care utilization, and medical complications were assessed. A Program Satisfaction Survey (PSS) was completed after a 6-month enrollment.ResultsTelemedicine visits included general follow-ups (51.25%), “multiple issues” (24.38%), skin (6.88%), bowel and bladder (5.63%), spasms (3.13%), and pain (3.13%). The PSS was collected (n = 45) and revealed positive results in perceived health, satisfaction with equipment/ease of use, and satisfaction with the program. Analysis of anecdotal comments revealed themes such as efficiency, convenience, and reduced barriers provided by telemedicine visits.ConclusionsThis study shows the feasibility and acceptance of a telemedicine intervention via iPad for individuals with SCI through positive PSS ratings and the wide variety of clinical topics addressed.SponsorshipCraig H. Neilsen Foundation.
Highlights
The impact of spinal cord injury (SCI) on the lives of affected individuals is far-reaching
Reducing psychological stress caused by mood disorders and anxiety over accessing specialized care, efficiently providing high-quality information to stay healthy, and addressing lifestyle changes that allow persons with SCI to remain engaged in the community are potential benefits of TM for persons with SCI [4, 11]
A total of 161 TM visits occurred via FaceTime including six phone calls for advice given by physicians covering in the absence of the principal physician
Summary
The impact of spinal cord injury (SCI) on the lives of affected individuals is far-reaching. It is critical to provide individuals with SCI with accessible specialized long-term care. Continuation of care can be impacted by geographical, physical, and transportation barriers, especially among individuals living in rural areas that may need to travel long distances to receive immediate medical care or to be seen by an SCI specialist [9]. Reducing psychological stress caused by mood disorders and anxiety over accessing specialized care, efficiently providing high-quality information to stay healthy, and addressing lifestyle changes that allow persons with SCI to remain engaged in the community are potential benefits of TM for persons with SCI [4, 11]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
