Telemedicine in Pediatric Neurology: A Survey of Patient and Provider Experience

Abstract

Background: Over recent years there has been a shift in clinical practice to support care delivery via telemedicine. This study aims to highlight the patient and provider experience of telemedicine over 2.5 years within a Canadian Pediatric Neurology clinic. Method: A REDCap survey was sent to all patients/parents and providers with a telemedicine appointment between March 2020 and September 2022. Results: Seven providers and 272 patients responded. Ninety-one percent of patients and 100% of providers were satisfied with telemedicine. Ninety percent of patients and 100% of providers found telemedicine more convenient. Eighty-seven percent of patients and 100% of providers were interested in future telemedicine appointments. Main challenges were with performing a physical examination and technological issues. Conclusion: Our survey shows that the majority of patients and providers had highly positive experiences with telemedicine and were interested in continuing care via telemedicine. This study supports incorporating telemedicine into future pediatric neurology practice.