The eighteenth episode of Arthritis Consumer Experts’ #ArthritisAtHome features Dr. Jane Purvis, a rheumatologist from Peterborough, Ontario and the President of the Ontario Rheumatology Association (ORA), on the rise of virtual care and telehealth during #COVID19. She also shares results of a recent Ontario Rheumatology Association patient survey regarding their experience with telehealth. #FactsFriday
Dr. Purvis discusses the rise of virtual care and telehealth during the past three months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most arthritis patients, particularly those with autoimmune disease, are staying at home and practicing physical distancing. Medical offices and clinics are closed and face to face medical appointments are being cancelled and healthcare providers are treating patients by phone or video link.
What do we mean buy virtual care? Dr. Purvis answers that question and shares results of a recent ORA survey that asked healthcare providers to rate their experience with virtual care.
Go Deeper
In response to patients reporting to ACE that they would take the opportunity to have a virtual visit if available and the more general growing consumer demand for virtual care, ACE is working closely with arthritis researchers and clinicians on telehealth initiatives across Canada. If you have any suggestions or would like to share your virtual care experience with us, please email: feedback@jointhealth.org
Check out these helpful resources:
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada: Telemedicine and virtual care guidelines (and other clinical resources for COVID-19): http://www.royalcollege.ca/rcsite/doc…
The Ontario Rheumatology Association: www.ontariorheum.ca
Arthritis Consumer Experts YouTube: Arthritis At Home Playlist: https://bit.ly/ArthritisAtHomeYouTube