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Evaluating the Utility of Using Text Messages to Communicate With Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Campbell, Kevin J; Blackburn, Brenna E; Erickson, Jill A; Pelt, Christopher E; Anderson, Lucas A; Peters, Christopher L; Gililland, Jeremy M.
  • Campbell KJ; From the Orthopedic & Sports Institute of the Fox Valley, Appleton, Wisconsin (Dr. Campbell), and the Department of Orthopedics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah (Dr. Campbell, Dr. Blackburn, Ms. Erickson, Dr. Pelt, Dr. Anderson, Dr. Peters, and Dr. Gililland).
J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev ; 5(6)2021 06 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1285509
ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION:

We evaluated the use of text messages to communicate information to patients whose surgeries were postponed because of the COVID-19 restriction on elective surgeries. Our hypothesis was that text messaging would be an effective way to convey updates.

METHODS:

In this observational study, 295 patients received text messaging alerts. Eligibility included patients who had their surgery postponed and had a cell phone that received text messages. Engagement rates were determined using embedded smart links. Patient survey responses were collected.

RESULTS:

A total of 3,032 texts were delivered. Engagement rates averaged 90%. Survey responses (n = 111) demonstrated that 98.2% of patients liked the text messages and 95.5% said that they felt more connected to their care team; 91.9% of patients agreed that the text updates helped them avoid calling the office. Patients with higher pain levels reported more frustration with their surgery delay (5.3 versus 2.8 on 1 to 10 scale, P value < 0.01). More frustrated patients wished they received more text messages (24.4% versus 4.6%, P value = 0.04) and found the content less helpful (8.2 versus 9.2 on 1 to 10 scale, P value = 0.01).

CONCLUSION:

Text messaging updates are an efficient way to communicate with patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Subject(s)

Full text: Available Collection: International databases Database: MEDLINE Main subject: Practice Management, Medical / Professional-Patient Relations / Communication / Text Messaging / COVID-19 Type of study: Experimental Studies / Observational study / Prognostic study Limits: Aged / Female / Humans / Male / Middle aged Language: English Year: 2021 Document Type: Article

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Full text: Available Collection: International databases Database: MEDLINE Main subject: Practice Management, Medical / Professional-Patient Relations / Communication / Text Messaging / COVID-19 Type of study: Experimental Studies / Observational study / Prognostic study Limits: Aged / Female / Humans / Male / Middle aged Language: English Year: 2021 Document Type: Article