While the use of telemedicine in rural areas has increased steadily over the years, its use was rapidly implemented during the onset of the COVID-19 crisis. Due to this rapid implementation, there is a lack of standardized workflows to assess and treat for various nephrotic conditions, symptoms, treatment modalities and transition processes in the pediatric population. In order to provide a foundation/suggestion for future standardized workflows, the authors of this paper have developed standardized workflows via the Delphi method. These workflows were informed based on results from cross sectional surveys directed to patients and providers. The majority of patients and providers were satisfied, 87% and 71% respectively, with their telemedicine visits. Common issues that were raised with the use of telemedicine included difficulty in procuring physical laboratory results and a lack of personal warmth during telemedicine visits. The workflows created based on these suggestions will both enhance safety in treating patients and allow for the best possible care.
Telemedicine for Pediatric Nephrology: Perspectives on COVID-19, Future Practices, and Workflow Changes