[«Digital Postcovid Syndrome» - possibilities and limits in digital communication with neurological patients]

Background: This work deals with the question of which digital touchpoints in the course of a patient journey are desired by neurological patients, important for effective treatment and easy to implement. Methodology: 100 (44 men, 56 women) patients in a neurological practice at three different locations were examined using a written questionnaire with closed questions on topics of online booking, making appointments and reminders via SMS, video consultation with the doctor and chat with the doctor or the medical practice assistant. Results: It was shown that the older a person is, the less they prefer digital booking and consultation and that the more they work, the more they prefer digital booking and consultation and the longer they live in Switzerland, the less they prefer chat advice. Data protection plays a more important role in older patients. Regarding gender no significant differences can be shown. Discussion: The results are in line with a survey conducted by the Swiss Medical Association (Foederatio Medicorum Helveticorum) of 2020, which shows that the population wants to relieve the burden on doctors in administrative tasks through the use of digital solutions considered desirable. In this study, both younger and older patients are very interested in booking appointments online and to receive an appointment reminder via text message. Since older patients tend to prefer conservative booking, a «hybrid model» should be offered so that both options are available.