Satisfaction With Teleneurology in Low Resource Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Patients and Healthcare Providers.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Teleneurology has become instrumental in extending neurologic care in remote and underserved areas, enhancing access, and potentially improving patient outcomes while reducing costs. This study evaluates the satisfaction of both patients and healthcare providers with teleneurology services for common neurological disorders.

Methods: In this single-center, prospective observational study, 58 patients suffering from headache, epilepsy, stroke, or dementia were recruited through the "Karnataka Brain Health Initiative." Teleconsultations were facilitated via Zoom, incorporating brief neurological examinations. Satisfaction levels were gauged using the Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQ) for patients and the Patient and Physician Satisfaction with Monitoring Questionnaire (PPSM) for healthcare providers.

Results: Of the 58 patients enrolled, 18 had headache, 12 epilepsy, 13 stroke, and 15 dementia, with a mean age of 43.7 years. All completed the TSQ, yielding a mean score of 4.47 ± 0.41. The average teleconsultation lasted 21.21 minutes. The PPSM questionnaire, completed by neurologists for all patients, resulted in a mean score of 4.33 ± 0.44. Of these, 36 consultations initiated by primary care physicians had a PPSM mean score of 4.47 ± 0.51. Agreement on quality of care was 60%, time-saving benefit 98%, and willingness for future use 95%.

Discussion: The findings indicate high satisfaction among both patients and providers, underscoring the effectiveness of teleneurology in delivering quality care comparable to in-person consultations. The positive feedback from primary care physicians highlights teleneurology's potential as an integral component of healthcare delivery in low-resource settings.