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. 2021 Jul;51(7):1151-1155.
doi: 10.1111/imj.15306. Epub 2021 Jun 18.

Rapid implementation of telehealth in geriatric outpatient clinics due to COVID-19

Michele L Callisaya  1   2 , Angel Hui-Ching Lee  3 , Anjali Khushu  3
Affiliations

Rapid implementation of telehealth in geriatric outpatient clinics due to COVID-19

Michele L Callisaya et al. Intern Med J. 2021 Jul.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the rapid implementation of telehealth. However, little is known about its suitability for the older population. We evaluated the use of telehealth in geriatric outpatient clinics. Half of the appointments needed to be re-scheduled due to language barrier, poor connection, hard of hearing and inability to perform assessments. Advantages included time efficiency and ability to visualise the home. Preference for the future was initial appointments as face-face, but reviews as either telehealth or face-face.

Keywords: coronavirus; geriatrics; older people; telehealth.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Count of responses to survey questions on satisfaction with telehealth.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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