Transitioning to telehealth during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: Perspectives from partners of women with cystic fibrosis and healthcare providers

Objectives Cystic fibrosis is a chronic, genetic disease that primarily affects the respiratory system. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has altered how people with cystic fibrosis receive healthcare. This paper explores the perceptions of cystic fibrosis healthcare providers and partners of wo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Chronic illness 2023-03, Vol.19 (1), p.95-101
Main Authors: Corcoran, Jessica, Marley Campbell, Caitlin, Ladores, Sigrid
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Chronic illnesses
Collaboration
Continuity of care
Coordination
Coronaviruses
COVID-19
Cystic fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis - therapy
Female
Fertility
Health care delivery
Health Personnel
Humans
Interdisciplinary aspects
Interviews
Outpatient treatment
Pandemics
Respiratory system
Significant others
Teams
Telemedicine
Women
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Summary:Objectives Cystic fibrosis is a chronic, genetic disease that primarily affects the respiratory system. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has altered how people with cystic fibrosis receive healthcare. This paper explores the perceptions of cystic fibrosis healthcare providers and partners of women with cystic fibrosis regarding the use of telehealth in routine cystic fibrosis healthcare in the US. Methods As part of a larger study examining fertility counseling for women with cystic fibrosis, we conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews. Participants included partners of women with cystic fibrosis (n = 20) and cystic fibrosis healthcare providers (n = 20). We completed the interviews before and during the global coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We analyzed the data using thematic analysis. Results When in-person healthcare could not be achieved safely, partners and healthcare providers found new value in telehealth. Three themes emerged: (1) increased connection between healthcare team and family, (2) increased efficiency of healthcare appointments, and (3) improved interdisciplinary collaboration. Partners found that telehealth allowed for more engagement in their significant others’ healthcare. Providers reported enhanced efficiency and opportunities for collaboration across specialties that improved healthcare delivery and care coordination. Discussion Results from this study highlighted the positive value of telehealth. Telehealth presents as a potential alternative to delivering outpatient care for people with chronic illnesses beyond the pandemic
ISSN:1742-3953
1745-9206
DOI:10.1177/17423953211060257