The provision of undergraduate clinical placements in ENT during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic – exploring patient perspectives on a variety of approaches

Abstract

Abstract Background The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has greatly disrupted routine ENT services. Subsequently, universities have chosen to either augment or suspend clinical placements. Objective This study aimed to elicit patients’ perspectives toward various approaches to clinical placements in ENT during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Methods Cross-sectional questionnaires were given to patients attending the ENT department for routine out-patient care. Responses were measured using a five-point Likert scale. Seventy-nine patients completed the survey. Results Ninety-five per cent of respondents felt the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic had not reduced their comfort in interacting with medical students. Most participants reported being comfortable with students participating directly or remotely in their care, and with students having access to their anonymised data. Twenty-five per cent of participants stated that they are uncomfortable with consultations being recorded and shared for medical education purposes. Conclusion A number of approaches to clinical placements remain acceptable to patients. Educational leads should continue to offer placements in ENT that can incorporate direct or remote observation of consultations.