JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Depending on the traumatic lesion, post-traumatic and post-operative treatment of trauma patients requires a medical or physiotherapeutic consultation in a clinic or practice. However, due to the COVID-19 lockdown, direct physical aftercare has been more difficult and telemedical solutions were introduced.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess orthopedic trauma patients` satisfaction with telemedical aftercare.

Methods:

Between March and July 2020 a survey using a standardized questionnaire (Freiburg Index of Patient Satisfaction; FIPS) amongst orthopedic trauma patients who received telemedical post-surgical or physiotherapeutic care was conducted. The FIPS is composed of five questions regarding treatment and one question on the overall treatment satisfaction. Furthermore, we assessed patients` demographics and their telemedical use. Sub-group analysis was performed for age groups (< 65 years vs. ≥ 65 years), used device and gender.

Results:

In total, we assessed 25 patients with a mean age of 43 years (14 female). The majority of patients used their smartphone for the consultations (76%). The assessed mean overall FIPS score was 2.14. The mean FIPS score of younger patients was 2.23 (versus 1.91 for elderly patients). 80% of the surveyed patients were absolutely confident with their smartphone or tablet use.

Conclusions:

The majority of patients surveyed stated a high satisfaction with the telemedical follow-up. Older patients showed a higher satisfaction rate than their counterparts. It seems that telemedical post-surgical or physiotherapeutic care is a viable option, especially in times of reduced contact, like the current Covid-19 pandemic. Clinical Trial: None.