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Published on: April 12, 2021
A study of online consultations for paediatric renal patients in Russia
Julia Braverman1, Dmitry V Samsonov
1Division on Addictions, Cambridge Health Alliance, 101 Station Lnd, 2 floor, Boston MA 02155, USA. braverju@gmail.com
Insights
An online platform provided consultations for parents of children with kidney diseases in Russia. The service improved parental satisfaction and education, potentially reducing overdiagnosis and aiding underserved areas.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Digital Health
- Patient Education
Background:
- Paediatric kidney diseases require specialized care and parental understanding.
- Access to expert advice can be limited, particularly in remote or underserved regions.
- Overdiagnosis of common pediatric conditions can lead to unnecessary anxiety and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational website offering online consultations for parents of pediatric kidney disease patients.
- To assess parental satisfaction and the impact of online consultations on patient education and care.
- To identify potential benefits in reducing misdiagnosis rates and improving healthcare access.
Main Methods:
- Development of an educational website for parents in Russia.
- Online submission of patient information and medical queries.
- Review and consultation by a US-trained pediatric nephrology specialist.
- Anonymous user satisfaction surveys to gather feedback.
Main Results:
- 141 unique users in the first nine months; 58% female patients.
- Analysis of 70 cases revealed overdiagnosis in 45% of common pediatric problems (e.g., UTI, pyelonephritis).
- High user satisfaction (mean 4.6/5), with 90% trusting the service and recommending it.
Conclusions:
- Online consultations offer reliable information, enhancing parental satisfaction and education.
- This digital health approach can improve pediatric care and patient education, especially in underserved areas.
- The service demonstrated potential in clarifying diagnoses and guiding appropriate follow-up care.
Abstract:
We developed an educational website for parents of paediatric patients with kidney diseases in Russia. Parents could ask questions regarding their child's illness and submit information, including medical summaries and scanned or electronic images. A US-trained specialist in paediatric nephrology reviewed the information provided and advised about further evaluation or referral, as well as discussing possible treatment plans. In the first nine months, 141 distinct users communicated through the website. Fifty-eight percent of patients were female. An analysis of 70 cases suggested that in 45% there had been overdiagnosis of common paediatric problems, such as urinary tract infection and pyelonephritis. Users completed an anonymous satisfaction survey. The response rate was 84% (n = 59/70). The majority of respondents found the consultation useful (mean = 4.6 on a 5-point scale). The online consultation answered the questions of most respondents, provided useful information and relieved uncertainty regarding a follow-up. The majority of the respondents (>90%) confirmed that they trusted the online consultation and would recommend the technique to other parents. Online consultation for parents can provide reliable information that results in improved parental satisfaction and education. This approach may be useful in improving care and providing patient education in underserved areas in the USA and elsewhere.
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