Patient Perceptions and Preferences Regarding Telemedicine for Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Care During the COVID-19...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Digital Health
• Patient Experience

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid adoption of telemedicine in rheumatology.
• Understanding patient perceptions is crucial for optimizing virtual care delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess telemedicine perceptions and preferences among patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction with telemedicine during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted among patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
• Telemedicine acceptability was measured using the Telemedicine Perception Questionnaire (TMPQ).
• Visit satisfaction was assessed across different telemedicine experiences and disease types.

Main Results:

• Over 800 patients responded, with a mean age of 58.6 years; most were White and female.
• 72.7% had telemedicine available, and 67.5% attended video visits, reporting a mean satisfaction score of 7.3/10.
• Telemedicine use was associated with a preference for virtual visits for routine care, results review, medication adjustments, and new injectable medication initiation.

Conclusions:

• Patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases were generally satisfied with telemedicine, particularly video visits, during the pandemic.
• Patient preference for telemedicine for specific reasons suggests a need for personalized scheduling to maximize its effective use.