Pediatric patient and guardian perceptions of medical student virtual attendance during in-person clinic visits

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: To gather patient, guardian, and provider perceptions of medical student virtually attending in-person patient visits. Design: A 2-week study whereby a medical student virtually attended in-person patient visits in the pediatric hematology oncology outpatient clinic. Surveys were distributed to patients and/or guardians, and providers regarding perceptions of virtual student attendance and the impact on their in-person visits. Results: 92% of patients and/or guardians approached to participate consented and completed their visit with a student attending virtually. 100% of patients and/or guardians would permit students to attend virtually during future visits. 100% of providers did not feel distracted by the student attending virtually. 81% would permit students to attend virtually if this was a recurring elective. Conclusions: Pediatric hematology oncology patients and guardians were willing to trial this innovative learning strategy. Faculty buy-in and a seamless workflow should be planned carefully to maximize learning while minimizing disruption to patient care. Clear expectations and telemedicine training should be provided to students. Future elective design can include this type of virtual distance-learning with the goal of expanding learner opportunities.