Patient Satisfaction with Telemedicine Services in Obstetrics and Gynecology during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to explore the patient’s experience with telemedicine (TM) as a method of care as well as its long-term implications for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Telephonic interview was conducted for 78 patients who had availed TM services from April 23, 2020, to June 30, 2020. A predetermined indigenous questionnaire was used to evaluate patient’s experiences with TM. Primary outcome was the measurement of level of patient satisfaction and secondary outcome was evaluating the demographic profile of patients. Results: Most respondents were of 21–30 years (42.3%) and 64.1% of respondents were from urban areas. 87.1% respondents were satisfied with the medical care they received; 94.8% respondents did not feel that their doctors hurried through their consultation. 19.2% respondents had encountered difficulty in using smartphones. 70.5% respondents perceived a positive role of TM in reducing their risk of contracting COVID-19. 62.8% respondents showed willingness to continue using TM services after the resumption of routine OPD services. 76.9% respondents felt that currently provided TM services did not need any improvements. 25.6% respondents needed physical visits to doctors even after availing TM services, for routine or emergency complaints. Conclusion: Patient satisfaction is high with TM services, and it can be adopted and incorporated into routine patient care especially in low-resource countries. Clinical significance: TM is expected to increase access to healthcare, while limiting patients’ geographic mobility. The implications and full potential of this service will be clear with long-term studies.