Virtual oncology clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic

• DOI: 10.1007/s11845-020-02489-9
• Publication Date: 2021-01-15T08:03:26Z
• Authors: David O’Reilly; Hailey Carroll; Mairi Lucas; Jane Sui; Maha Al Sendi; David McMahon; Waseem Darwish; Ronan McLaughlin; Mohammed Raza Khan; Hazel O Sullivan; Sonya Chew; Colum Dennehy; Catherine M. Kelly; John McCaffrey; Megan Greally; Desmond Carney; Michaela J. Higgins
• Keywords: Pandemic; Receipt

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in radical changes the delivery of healthcare worldwide. Our oncology service (at an Irish national cancer centre) rapidly transitioned to use telemedicine or virtual clinics (VC) minimise potential risk exposure amongst immunosuppressed, high-risk population. study aimed evaluate VC this setting.An 18-point questionnaire was designed investigate patient experience during Ireland and compliance with guidelines developed conduct role future. Questionnaires were distributed following receipt verbal consent from patients VC. Descriptive statistics utilised for data analysis using SPSS®.One hundred four returned completed surveys (n = 104/164, 63% response rate). Overall satisfaction levels high most 58/100, 58%; no answer provided (NAP), n 4) equally satisfied nearly comparison a usual clinic encounter. majority felt that there should be future 84/102, 82%; NAP, 2). 61/99, 61%; 5) very relieved avoid hospital visit due perceived COVID-19.The may have medical care post pandemic.