Patient Perspectives on Telemedicine Use During the Pandemic Save

Research from the COVID-19 Global Rheumatology Alliance included surveys and data gathering from rheumatology patients. During the pandemic era there was rapid adoption of telemedicine by rheumatologists; and a recent study of patient perspectives shows that most found telemedicine to be at least as effective as in-person clinic visits, especially in dealing with making medication changes and discussion of disease activity.

An online survey for of rheumatic diseases patients was launched in January 2021.  Overall, they received 596 complete responses (85% female and 47% 41–60 years old) and during the COVID-19 pandemic, 78% of patients used telemedicine, with 61% of telemedicine users noting telemedicine to be as effective or more effective than an in-person visit.

Telemedicine satisfaction was more likely in younger patients and those from North America.

While most respondents found telemedicine to be effective, it was best receieved in certain scenarios.Further insight and study of optimal disease state, clinical encounter and clinical scenarios is needed.