Video-based virtual consultations
Description:
Virtual consultations were implemented in a hospital trust to facilitate patients' remote healthcare appointments. However, without help, patients may struggle to access and attend remote appointments. To address this need, a CNIO facilitated patients' virtual appointments with their consultant. Patients attended their local GP surgery, Walk in Centre, or satellite unit, where the CNIO booked a room and helped them access their appointment, saving on travel time and a hospital visit. This also enabled consultants working from home to provide timely appointments for patients, reduce waiting lists and offer advice and guidance where needed.
Barriers:
Patients may struggle to set-up and use virtual consultations without appropriate help and guidance. A text message or email is unlikely to be sufficient for all patients. The virtual platform requires an internet connection, a device, and some digital literacy. To support patients' access, staff time and a suitable location to enable this is required. There were also issues of confidentiality for patients with families at home during the pandemic.
Enablers:
Clear step-by-step guidance for patients when learning to use virtual consultations. Support in a safe environment.
Outcomes for patient:
Patients are enabled to access virtual appointments, saving time and money on travel and hospital parking fees, and reducing the risk of Covid-19 infection. Patients can access information and appointments digitally, which supports digital inclusion.
Organisations:
- NHS/HSC Acute Trust
Units/Services:
- Hospital Trusts & Agencies (e.g. Acute Trust)
Technologies: