Implementing Real-Time Video Consultation in Plastic Surgery.
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007, Amsterdam, MB, The Netherlands, iriswestra@hotmail.com.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
|July 15, 2015
Summary
Telemedicine in plastic surgery offers equal patient satisfaction and saves time compared to in-person visits. However, it may impact patient-physician communication, necessitating physician training.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Telemedicine
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Dutch healthcare reform centralizes specialist care in expert centers.
- This may reduce accessibility and increase costs for remote patients.
- Telemedicine offers a solution for accessible, cost-effective care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare patient satisfaction and experiences with telemedicine vs. traditional consultations.
- To evaluate the impact of real-time video consultations on patient care after plastic surgery.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial comparing real-time video consultations with in-person follow-ups.
- Utilized validated questionnaires (PSQ-18, TSQ, PEQ) for patient satisfaction and communication.
- Assessed time spent on consultation aspects.
Main Results:
- Overall patient satisfaction was comparable between telemedicine and in-person consultations.
- Telemedicine patients reported higher general satisfaction but lower satisfaction with patient-physician communication.
- Telemedicine consultations were significantly shorter and involved less waiting time.
Conclusions:
- Real-time video consultations are a time-saving alternative in plastic surgery follow-ups.
- Patient-physician communication may be negatively perceived in telemedicine settings.
- Physician training in telemedicine communication is recommended to enhance patient experience.
