Attend anywhere clinic: A virtual outpatient clinic experience in otolaryngology during the COVID‐19 pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Numerous technological advances have been made during the COVID‐19 pandemic. There has been a growing body of evidence highlighting the value of virtual consultations as an adjunct to physical appointments. This study presents the virtual clinic experiences of one ENT department in the UK. Methods Retrospective review of all virtual consultations undertaken at a single ENT department during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results A total of 556 virtual consultations took place during the study period across all ENT sub‐specialties. Of which 27% of patients were converted to face‐to‐face follow‐up and over 30% were discharged following a virtual consultation. Out of 333 video consultation, 31% were converted to telephone due to patient preference or technological difficulties. Conclusion This study highlights the benefits and lessons learnt from implementing a virtual clinic system in ENT. The authors recommend the introduction of video consultation as a useful adjunct to face‐to‐face appointments during the COVID‐19 pandemic and beyond. Level of Evidence 4.

Keywords

• appointments and schedules
• COVID‐19
• otolaryngology
• referral and consultation
• telemedicine