An assessment of client and clinician satisfaction in veterinary teleconsultation compared to in-person consultations

Abstract

PICO question Compared to in-person veterinary consultations, does teleconsultation lead to similar levels of client and clinician satisfaction?   Clinical bottom line Category of research question Qualitative assessment The number and type of study designs reviewed Eight studies were critically appraised. There were six cross-sectional studies, one randomised controlled clinical trial, and one case report Strength of evidence Weak Outcomes reported All eight studies provided weak evidence of similar levels of clinician and / or client satisfaction Conclusion Teleconsultation can lead to similar levels of client and clinician satisfaction when compared to in-person consultations. However, the evidence is weak due to the subjectivity and varied methods of measuring satisfaction. Furthermore, the current applicability of veterinary teleconsultation is still very limited to certain select scenarios in which it is appropriate (e.g., emergency, triage, remote locations, non-complicated routine postoperative checks, nutrition and behavioural consults)   How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.