Telemedicine experiences at a pediatric endocrinology clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic

DENKBOY ÖNGEN Y., EREN E., ŞAHİN K. C., BUHUR PİRİMOĞLU M., SAĞLAM H., TARIM Ö. F.

IRISH JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE, cilt.191, sa.3, ss.985-990, 2022 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 191 Sayı: 3
  • Basım Tarihi: 2022
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1007/s11845-021-02677-1
  • Dergi Adı: IRISH JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Biotechnology Research Abstracts, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.985-990
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Children, COVID-19 pandemic, Endocrine disorders, Telehealth, Telemedicine, RAPID IMPLEMENTATION, TELEHEALTH
  • Bursa Uludağ Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Background The coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all aspects of life, including the routine follow-up of patients with chronic illnesses. In this study, we aim to share our experience of telemedicine in our pediatric endocrinology clinic during the pandemic. Methods We were able to continue caring for children with endocrine disorders using various communication methods such as e-mail and e-message. Results A total of 267 patients received telemedicine care over the course of 608 contacts. The number of hospital visits and physical contact was effectively reduced to help protect against the COVID-19 infection. The patients were supported in terms of receiving their prescriptions and patient education also continued. No complications were observed. Conclusion The advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine were discussed and consequently, we propose that telemedicine can be utilized to maintain and continue the care of children with endocrine disorders during and even after the pandemic. Further studies are needed to standardize this method for general use.