Pandemic intake questionnaire to improve quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of outpatient neurologic and developmental care at the Kennedy Krieger institute during the COVID-19 pandemic

• DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.934558
• Publication Date: 2022-10-06T13:38:05Z
• Authors: Pooja Vedmurthy; Connor Murray; Belinda Chen; Akua Asiedu; Kristin Baranano; Mihee Bay; Harolyn Belcher; Vera Burton; Charles Conlon; Amena Fine; Ryan Gill; Jacqueline Harris; Khaylynn Hart; Shannon Inches; Jennifer Johnson; Eboni Lance; Paul H. Lipkin; Deepa U. Menon; Tiffany McIntyre; Meghna Rajaprakash; Albert Recio; Harvey S. Singer; Lindsay Smegal; Constance L. Smit...; Hilary Vernon; Anna Maria Wilms ...; Joyce Wong; Karina Yelin; Mary L. O’Connor ...; T. Andrew Zabel; Anne M. Comi
• Keywords: Pandemic; Computer-assisted web interviewing

The COVID-19 pandemic uniquely affects patients with neurologic and developmental disabilities at the Kennedy Krieger Institute. These are increased risk of co-morbidities, increasing their contracting COVID-19. Disruptions in home school routines, restrictions accessing crucial healthcare services has had a significant impact.A Pandemic Intake questionnaire regarding related medical concerns guardians was distributed using Qualtrics. Data from May-December 2020 were merged demographic information 10 clinics (Center for Autism Related Disorders (CARD), Neurology, Epigenetics, Neurogenetics, Center Development Learning (CDL) Sickle Cell, Spinal Cord, Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS), Tourette's, Metabolism). A provider feedback survey to program directors assess effectiveness this intervention.Analysis included responses 1643 pediatric (mean age 9.5 years, range 0-21.6 years). Guardians more medically complicated reported perceived (p < 0.001) inability obtain therapies surgeries 0.001). Guardian CARD reports worsening behavior = 0.01). Providers availability in-person virtual visits made referrals additional care address this. In providers, five out six who received found helpful caring patients.This quality improvement project successfully implemented pre-visit quickly areas impact on neurodevelopmental disorders. During pandemic, results identified several major impact, including patient populations behavioral changes, sleep and/or disruptions care. Most improved as result.