Virtual care is a double-edged sword: Adjusting preventive care service delivery in community health clinics during COVID-19

Abstract

Purpose: Qualitatively examine how community health clinics delivered cardiovascular disease (CVD) preventive care during COVID-19 using virtual care and related adaptations. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2021–2022 with nine clinician leaders from four clinics across the country that share an electronic health record. Interviews covered: (1) the pandemic’s impact on preventive care delivery, (2) the adaptation and role of virtual care, and (3) management of CVD risk in this context. Collected data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Results: Staff reported substantial pros and cons to virtual care for CVD risk management. It was seen as useful for general check-ins with patients. However, without current laboratory results and vital measurements, providers found it challenging to assess patient CVD risk and direct care accordingly. Conclusion: Findings add to the evolving evidence base that the necessary pivot to virtual care during the pandemic spurred innovations but also created limitations and delays in delivering appropriate preventive care.

Keywords

• community health centers
• covid-19
• heart disease risk factors
• preventive medicine
• qualitative research
• telemedicine