The practice of teleneurology in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

Objective: We aimed to describe the practice of teleneurology among Filipino neurologists and to determine the factors affecting its adoption using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model and its constructs, namely performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. Background: Teleneurology is the use of information and communications technology for neurologic health care delivery, research, and education by a healthcare professional. Its practice has provided an accessible and safe method of neurologic consultation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted online last October 2020 involving adult and pediatric neurologists in the Philippines. The internal consistency of the questionnaire adapted from UTAUT model was determined using Cronbach's alpha. We performed logistic regression analysis to determine which UTAUT model constructs were significant factors on the intent to practice teleneurology. Results: The study yielded a 28.8% response rate. Among the respondents (n =147), 95.2% (n = 140) practiced teleneurology during the pandemic, and 77.6% (n =147) planned to continue it after the pandemic. Teleneurology was mostly done on an outpatient basis using a laptop on social media platforms via videoconferencing due to easier access for both end-users. The identified benefits of teleneurology are a wider area of practice, an avenue for education, and high patient satisfaction. The common barriers identified were difficulties in neurologic examination and lack of facilities. The UTAUT model explained 80.9% (95% CI 0.76, 0.86a) of the total variation. Performance expectancy and facilitating conditions affect the intent to use teleneurology. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a rapid shift to teleneurology in the Philippines to provide safe and effective neurologic healthcare delivery. Despite its barriers, majority of the respondents plan to continue teleneurology. To increase its adoption, the establishment of benefit awareness campaigns, organizational and infrastructural support would be beneficial.