Dataset Information

Video Visits Using the Zoom for Healthcare Platform for People Receiving Maintenance Hemodialysis and Nephrologists: A Feasibility Study in Alberta, Canada.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Demand for virtual visits (an online synchronous medical appointment between a health care provider and patient) is increasing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There may be additional benefits of virtual visits as they appear to be convenient and potentially cost-saving to patients. People receiving maintenance hemodialysis require ongoing care from their nephrologist and may benefit from virtual visits; however, the optimal model for a virtual kidney clinic is unknown.

Objective

To codesign and assess the feasibility of a virtual (video) kidney clinic model with clinic staff, nephrologists, and patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis, to be used for routine follow-up visits.

Design

Mixed-methods study.

Setting

Two main kidney clinics in central Calgary, Alberta.

Participants

Adults with kidney failure receiving maintenance hemodialysis, nephrologists, and clinic staff.

Methods

First, we individually interviewed clinic staff and nephrologists to assess the needs of the clinic to deliver virtual visits. Then, we used participant observation with patients and nephrologists to codesign the virtual visit model. Finally, we used structured surveys to evaluate the patients' and nephrologists' experiences when using the virtual model.

Results

Eight video visits (8 patients; 6 nephrologists) were scheduled between October 2019 and February 2020 and 7 were successfully completed. Among completed visits, all participants reported high satisfaction with the service, were willing to use it again, and would recommend it to others. Three main themes were identified with respect to factors influencing visit success: IT infrastructure, administration, and process.

Limitations

Patients received training on how to use the videoconference platform by the PhD student, whom also set up the technical components of the visit for the nephrologist. This may have overestimated the feasibility of virtual visits if this level of support is not available in future. Second, interviews were not audio-recorded and thematic analysis relied on field notes.

Conclusions

Video visits for routine follow-up care between people receiving hemodialysis and nephrologists were acceptable to patients and nephrologists. Video visits appear to be feasible if clinics are equipped with appropriate equipment and IT infrastructure, physicians are remunerated appropriately, and patients receive training on how to use software as needed.

SUBMITTER: Lunney M

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8082995 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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