Patient Perceptions of Head and Neck Ambulatory Telemedicine Visits: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Objective During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been unprecedented use of telemedicine for otolaryngology ambulatory visits. Patient satisfaction with telemedicine is an important metric, but survey-based questionnaires do not capture the nuances of the patient experience. This study aims to understand head and neck patients’ perceptions about telemedicine clinic visits during COVID-19. Methods Fifty-six established patients who had video-based telemedicine visits with an otolaryngology–head and neck surgery faculty member between March 25, 2020, and April 24, 2020, completed unstructured telephone interviews. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the interview data. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted to determine the patients’ demographic, disease, and treatment information. Results The primary benefits of telemedicine were accessibility and cost and time savings. Primary limitations included the ability to perform a physical examination. Most patients expressed a willingness to participate in future remote visits if appropriate or necessitated by social circumstances. Discussion Telemedicine is a disruptive process, and long-term adoption requires understanding patient perception of and satisfaction with telemedicine. Head and neck cancer patients were generally satisfied with telemedicine. The study elucidated patient perceived benefits and limitations of telemedicine. Implications for Practice Continued implementation of telemedicine in otolaryngology–head and neck ambulatory clinics will require consideration of contextual features surrounding the virtual delivery of care, with particular attention to visit appropriateness for telemedicine and social circumstances.