Patient Perspectives on Virtual vs In-Person Posttreatment Care for Brain Metastases

This study aims to explore perspectives of patients with brain metastasis on posttreatment care, comparing virtual and in-person visits, and identifying factors shaping those views.

A cross-sectional survey assessed patient perspectives on posttreatment care. We offered the survey to English-fluent patients with internet access who received posttreatment care at a Brain Metastases Clinic (n = =140). One hundred twenty-three participants returned the survey, and 112 completed at least 80% of it, a criterion for inclusion. Patients received posttreatment follow-up care either virtually, in-person, or both. Nonparametric data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U and Chi-Square tests, with a modified linear regression model evaluating factors related to visit satisfaction. Our hypothesis was that virtual care would be rated higher based on doctor punctuality, but lower on personal connection, communication, and overall satisfaction.

Participants who experienced both visit types rated in-person visits higher for personal connection (χ²(df = 1) = 19.703, P < .0001), ability to demonstrate physical problems (χ²(df = 1) = 18.778, P < .0001), and confidence in addressing health concerns (χ²(df = 1) = 16.941, P < .0001). Overall satisfaction did not significantly differ between visit types (U = 3607.5, z = 1.613, P = .107). Doctor punctuality (t = -2.328, SE = 0.32, P = .025) and communication effectiveness (t = -3.166, SE = 0.608, P = .003) were significant correlates to visit satisfaction.

Similar levels of satisfaction with virtual and in-person visits suggest that virtual care is a viable alternative to in-person visits. Higher ratings of personal connection felt with the physician, ability to demonstrate physical problems, and having health concerns properly addressed, within in-person visits, underscore their importance within a health care setting. Additionally, a doctor punctuality and communication skills are the most significant factors affecting visit satisfaction in this population, highlighting key areas for improvement in health care delivery.