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Telemedicine for head and neck cancer surveillance in the COVID ‐19 era: Promise and pitfalls
Author(s) -
Fassas Scott,
Cummings Emily,
Sykes Kevin J.,
Bur Andrés M.,
Shnayder Yelizaveta,
Kakarala Kiran
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.26659
Subject(s) - telemedicine , medicine , covid-19 , pandemic , head and neck cancer , health care , medical emergency , head and neck , family medicine , cancer , infectious disease (medical specialty) , surgery , disease , economics , economic growth
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has led to increased telemedicine visits. This study examines current preferences and barriers for telemedicine among patients with head and neck cancer. Methods Single institution retrospective analysis of 64 patients scheduling visits with the head and neck surgical oncology clinic at a tertiary academic medical center. Data were collected detailing patient preferences and barriers regarding telemedicine appointments. Patients electing to participate in telemedicine were compared to those preferring in‐person appointments. Results Most patients (68%) were not interested in telemedicine. Preference for in‐person examination was the most common reason for rejecting telemedicine, followed by discomfort with or limited access to technology. Patients elected telemedicine visits to avoid infection and for convenience. Conclusions When given a choice, patients with head and neck cancer preferred in‐person visits over telemedicine. Although telemedicine may improve health care access, patient preferences, technology‐related barriers, and limitations regarding cancer surveillance must be addressed moving forward.