Use of Telehealth Videoconferencing in Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes in Oregon

• Published in: Telemedicine journal and e-health Vol. 24; no. 1; p. 86
• Main Authors: Guttmann-Bauman, Ines, Kono, Joannie, Lin, Amber Laurie, Ramsey, Katrina L, Boston, Bruce A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.01.2018
• Subjects: Child; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 - therapy; Emergency Service, Hospital - statistics & numerical data; Female; Glycated Hemoglobin A; Hospitalization - statistics & numerical data; Humans; Male; Oregon; Patient Satisfaction; Rural Health Services - statistics & numerical data; Telemedicine - statistics & numerical data; Videoconferencing - statistics & numerical data; type 1 diabetes; telehealth; pediatrics
• ISSN: 1556-3669
• DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2017.0072

We reviewed the impact of telehealth videoconferencing clinics on outcomes of care in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes in rural Oregon. We performed a chart review as well as the review of patient satisfaction questionnaires from 27 patients seen in the first year of the program. The number of yearly visits to diabetes clinic increased from average 1.5 to 2.7, which was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Glycemic control remained stable, and there was no difference in the amount of emergency department visits or hospitalizations related to diabetes. Patients expressed high satisfaction with the service and majority considered it equal to in-person visits. We conclude that telehealth videoconferencing visits have the potential to improve care in pediatric diabetes patients, particularly the patients living in areas distant from subspecialty centers.