Patient perceptions of a remote assessment pathway in otology: a qualitative descriptive analysis

Purpose This study aims to gain in-depth feedback on patient perceptions of remote assessment in otology, to better inform the development of a telemedicine pathway for new otology referrals. Methods A qualitative descriptive approach was employed to analyse semi-structured interviews from 14 patients seen in a routine otology clinic. Results Patients were generally accepting of the proposed telemedicine pathway. Key themes included maintaining quality of care, adequate training for facilitators, reducing waiting times, appropriate actioning of clinic outcomes and anxiety surrounding the use of technology. Conclusions Our proposed telemedicine pathway for new otology referrals is acceptable to patients, provided there is no compromise in the standard of their care versus a traditional pathway. These results further our understanding of remote assessment in otology from the patient perspective and may help to inform the development of such pathways outside of our centre.