232 - Telehealth Clinical Impact on Medically Complex Patients: Pilot Study

Abstract:

Purpose: Patients with complex medical needs face a variety of barriers in health care settings. This pilot study evaluated the effectiveness and perceived value of pre-appointment telehealth visits for pediatric patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Outcomes included establishment of achievable clinical goals, caregiver satisfaction, and provider perceptions of telehealth utility in caring for patients with special health care needs.

Methods: Children aged 12–17 years with an IDD diagnosis were recruited and randomized into a telehealth intervention or standard-care control group. The intervention group completed a scripted telehealth visit prior to in-person dental appointment to review medical and dental history and establish a treatment goal, which was shared with the provider. Control participants received usual in-person care without telehealth. Caregiver and provider satisfaction surveys were completed following the in-person visit. Qualitative data were analyzed using open and axial coding, and Likert-scale survey data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results: Caregiver satisfaction scores were high in both groups (n=4). Provider satisfaction scores were also high in both groups; however, moderate effect size suggests greater trends favoring telehealth (n=4). Qualitative expert review suggested improved visit preparedness and clearer goal alignment in the telehealth group. Statistical analysis will continue as more participants are recruited, recruitment is ongoing.



Conclusion: Pre-appointment telehealth may enhance satisfaction and perceived quality of care for pediatric patients with IDD. Larger sample sizes are needed to further evaluate potential clinical impact.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by the Deborah Munroe Noonan Memorial Research Fund, Grant number: 55211805