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Updated: May 1, 2026
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Published on: February 12, 2020
Utility and Efficacy of a Virtual Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Support Group
Judy Pham1, Christopher Nguyen1, Gianna Fote1
1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Orange, USA.
Objective:
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a neurodegenerative process for which our team previously demonstrated the efficacy of an in-person NPH support group. However, in this study, we aimed to examine the educational benefits and efficacy of a virtual NPH support group.
Methods:
Monthly virtual meetings were held from July 2022 to June 2023 for NPH patients and their friends/families. The format of each meeting consisted of a physician-led presentation, question and answer sessions, group discussions, and polls to evaluate the meeting. The survey included questions to gather participant demographics and evaluate the benefits of education, emotional well-being, and virtual format.
Results:
Over one year, 11 virtual support group meetings were held and attended by 343 participants. The average survey ratings for gained knowledge, self-efficacy, and satisfaction ranged from 4.15 to 4.60 on a five-point scale, demonstrating strongly positive outcomes since a score above 3 is considered favorable. In this study, patients reported improved education, coping and communication skills, and emotional support. We also demonstrated high participant satisfaction and continued interest in meetings.
Conclusions:
This study demonstrates that virtual, physician-led support groups can be effective in providing education, emotional, and peer support for NPH patients and their friends/families. Improved knowledge and accessibility to educational and social resources can improve patient health outcomes by improving adherence to physician recommendations.
