Telemedicine Application in Thyroid Diseases in the Background of COVID 19 Pandemic in a Developing Country

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Tele-video consultation has been increasingly applied to medical practice. After COVID 19 pandemic patients are looking for alternatives to face to face consultations. In this article we share our experience with use of telemedicine facility in thyroid disease management. Methods: Retrospective study. All patients having tele-video consultations with the Department of Endocrine Surgery at our hospital from 2017 till date (2019 August) are included. We looked into the number/ type of consultations, demographic profile, the common treatments which could be provided and follow ups. The problems in the consultations, limitations were also analyzed. Chi-square test was used to compare the proportions Results: Total number of tele video consultations was 130.  17.5% (n=23) were males and 82.5% (n=107) were females. Year wise consultations seen were 2017 (n=25), 2018 (n=26), 2019 (n=20) and  (n=59) in 2020. First time consultations prior to pandemic was 15% (n=11) and 48% (n=28) after the pandemic (p=<0.0001).The common diagnosis made during the tele-video consultations was hypothyroidism with or without diffuse goiter, hyperthyroidism with or without goiter, euthyroid goiter, carcinoma thyroid and hyperparathyroidism Follow up of 33 patients after their thyroidectomy/ parathyroidectomy was through tele-video consultation. . Among the patients 26.9% (n=35) were consulting from outside India. 25.3% were from urban areas and 74.7% were from rural areas (p=<0.0001). Poor internet connectivity affected (Poor video/ audio) was seen in 28 sessions (21.5%). Discussion: In medical/surgical issues related to thyroid tele video consultation is as good as direct contact with doctor.