Public perceptions about telemedicine services for COVID-19 self-isolating patients

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the delivery of healthcare, including the adoption of distance delivery of care. Telemedicine was commonly used to expand the reach and access of health services and prevent the spread of COVID-19. This is particularly important for self-isolating patients at home. Despite this importance, few studies have evaluated public perceptions on this service. Objective: To describe public perceptions about telemedicine services for COVID-19 self-isolated patients. Method: An observational research design with cross-sectional approach was conducted on patients who had experienced COVID-19 self-isolation. Respondents were recruited using a consecutive sampling method. They were asked to complete an online questionnaire measuring perceptions about telemedicine services. The results were analysed using descriptive statistic. Result: Overall, 130 respondents participated in the survey. Large portion of respondents perceived the benefits and the need for telemedicine services for COVID-19 self-isolated patients. WhatsApp was the most common platform used for the services. The majority of respondents agreed that telemedicine was the best option for delivering health services during COVID-19 pandemic.      Conclusion: Telemedicine has important applications for care during the COVID-19 pandemic and especially for self-isolating patients.