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Telemedicine characteristics using WhatsApp™ in ophthalmology
Carlos Sevillano1, Verónica Rodríguez López2
1Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital do Salnés, Spain.
Archivos De La Sociedad Espanola De Oftalmologia
|December 8, 2025
Summary
WhatsApp™ (WhatsApp) is a cost-effective telemedicine tool for faster clinical practice. This study found it useful for quick diagnoses, avoiding in-person visits and identifying serious conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Digital Health
- Telemedicine
Background:
- Telemedicine offers reduced diagnostic times and cost-effectiveness.
- WhatsApp™ is a widely used instant messaging application in clinical practice.
- Analysis of WhatsApp™ utility in clinical practice is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the use of WhatsApp™ in clinical practice.
- To determine the usefulness of WhatsApp™ for everyday clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Collected teleconsultations via WhatsApp™ from 2024.
- Analyzed consultation origin, reason, diagnoses, and patient demographics.
- Included 206 teleconsultations.
Main Results:
- 65% of teleconsultations were initiated by patients.
- Average patient age was 42.66 years; 38% were male.
- Common diagnoses included conjunctivitis and refractive errors (ametropias).
- WhatsApp™ facilitated rapid communication, especially with younger patients.
- 77% of face-to-face consultations were avoided.
- Potentially serious conditions were identified and addressed promptly.
Conclusions:
- WhatsApp™ is a cost-effective and fast tool.
- It offers significant advantages for daily clinical practice.
- It enhances patient care through efficient communication and timely diagnosis.
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