Endocrine Abstracts

The use of digital technology to improve accessibility and efficiency of services has been recognised and telemedicine has been increasing over recent years, particularly for patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes. The onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic rapidly accelerated the use of virtual consultations into everyday practice. The aim of this study was to assess feedback from paediatric diabetes patients and their parents regarding virtual consultations. The study was performed in a district general hospital during the first COVID-19 lockdown in the UK. An electronic survey was sent to patients following their virtual consultation. A total of 22 virtual clinics were held between 1^st May 2020 to 1^st October 2020. 37 feedback forms were obtained during this time period from parents (31) or children and young people (6). Of those surveyed, 86% recommended video consultations to be part of their diabetes care. Qualitative data showed reduced travel time, comfort, reduced need for parking and convenience as the highest areas improved through video consultations. Clinical care was shown to be positive and addressed patients concerns, 84% of those surveyed reported that the appointment was about what they wanted it to be about. This study shows how technology can be effectively used for multi-disciplinary team working and co-ordinating patient care. Challenges are faced however through health inequalities leading to difficulties accessing technology and digital exclusion. The recent NPDA 2021 shows that social deprivation is a significant factor affecting glycaemic control. A previous study has also shown that children from more deprived areas are less likely to download and have poorer HbA1c levels. It is important to consider the ongoing implications for patients having access to technology to be able to attend virtual clinics and efforts need to be made to try and reduce health inequalities. Virtual consultations have provided a solution to the challenges of patient access faced through the COVID-19 pandemic. Although there are benefits highlighted, it is important to conduct further research into the impact of this for both patients and professionals and to ensure systems are in place to create the best virtual health service experience.