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Remote clinical consultations in restorative dentistry-A survey
1Dental Core Trainee in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Addenbrookes, Cambridge University Hospitals, United Kingdom.
Journal of Dentistry
|December 6, 2021
Summary
Remote clinical consultations (RCCs) for restorative dentistry patients were highly valued, with most preferring virtual appointments over in-person visits. Patients reported positive experiences, citing convenience and cost savings, though technical issues were a noted barrier.
Area of Science:
- Restorative Dentistry
- Digital Health
- Patient Experience
Background:
- Secondary care services adapted to remote clinical consultations (RCCs) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Head and neck cancer and cleft lip and palate patients require specialist restorative dentistry treatment.
- Assessing patient experience is crucial for evaluating the efficacy of virtual care models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate patient experience with remote clinical consultations (RCCs) in specialist restorative dentistry.
- To identify benefits and barriers associated with video and telephone consultations for head and neck cancer and cleft lip and palate patients.
- To contribute evidence supporting the integration of virtual consultations into restorative dentistry pathways.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to 93 patients who underwent remote consultations (video or telephone) between August 2020 and April 2021.
- Sixty-three patients completed the survey, providing feedback on their experience with the Attend Anywhere platform for video consultations.
- Data analysis focused on patient preferences, reported experiences, and factors influencing satisfaction with remote consultations.
Main Results:
- Over 70% of patients preferred remote consultations (video or telephone) to in-person appointments.
- Patients reported positive experiences, valuing the opportunity to discuss concerns and familiarize themselves with clinicians.
- Key benefits included time savings, reduced travel, and lower expenses; technical difficulties were the primary barrier.
- Patients recommended remote consultations when no immediate treatment was anticipated.
Conclusions:
- Remote clinical consultations are a practical and accepted method for delivering specialist restorative dentistry care.
- Patient acceptance is high, with significant perceived benefits outweighing drawbacks for many.
- Addressing technical challenges is essential for optimizing the remote consultation experience.
- RCCs offer a viable complementary approach within unique patient pathways, enhancing efficiency and capacity.
