Contrasting patient and paediatric cystic fibrosis team perception of telemedicine consultations

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The COVID-19 outbreak has accelerated the use of telemedicine consultations in place of all but essential face-to-face (FTF) cystic fibrosis (CF) appointments. We aimed to compare patient/carer and CF multidisciplinary team (MDT) experiences of virtual consultations. Methods: A questionnaire survey was distributed to most families in the King's College Hospital regional paediatric CF network and all MDT members in July 2020, 4 months after the move to telemedicine consultations. Consultations were done by both telephone and video-link. Results: 40/165 (24%) questionnaires were returned from patients/carers. Median age of responders was 8.5 years (9 months–17 years). 32% (13) of responders preferred FTF consultations, 28% (11) preferred virtual, 35% (14) had no preference and 5% (2) did not answer this question. The majority (82%) were satisfied with the assessment and treatment, and would consider telemedicine consultations in the future. One family reported a lack of necessary equipment. 17/20 (85%) MDT members responded and all 17 preferred FTF appointments. The majority favoured using telemedicine appointments for stable patients in between face-to-face appointments. Conclusion: Although MDT members expressed a clear preference for FTF appointments, patient preference was evenly split between virtual or FTF consultations. This single centre survey highlights the challenge for CF professionals to adapt standard practices to changing patient/carer choice and expectation without any loss of effectiveness, also preventing a digital divide.