Use of telehealth to improve health outcomes for those with motor neuron disease: a mixed-methods systematic literature review

Abstract

Background: Multidisciplinary care has been shown to improve the quality of life and extend survival for patients with motor neuron disease (pwMND). Several barriers to accessing care have been previously identified. Telehealth can potentially mitigate this by providing remote specialist healthcare services. Aims: Systematically review the existing literature to assess if and how telehealth can reduce barriers to access multidisciplinary team (MDT) care and improve health outcomes for pwMND. Methods: A mixed-methods, systematic literature review was conducted to identify evaluations of telehealth interventions. Telehealth interventions were evaluated using the Evaluating Digital Health Interventions Framework. Findings: A total of 293 articles were identified from the search and 16 studies met the criteria for inclusion in the review. Modes of telehealth delivery included video conferencing, app-based self-assessment and remote monitoring. Healthcare outcomes identified as being approved included accessibility, improved communication, timely interventions and satisfaction. Conclusion: Telehealth has the potential to mitigate barriers to access to specialist MDT and improve healthcare outcomes for pwMND. Patients’ preferences should always be considered in decision-making when considering available options.