Telemedicine in pediatric rheumatology: this is the time for the community to embrace a new way of clinical practice
Susan Shenoi, Kristen Hayward, Megan L. Curran, Elizabeth A. Kessler, Jay Mehta, Meredith Riebschleger, Helen Foster
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The use of telemedicine in pediatric rheumatology has been historically low. The current COVID 19 global pandemic has forced a paradigm shift with many centers rapidly adopting virtual visits to conduct care resulting in rapid expansion of use of telemedicine amongst practices. BODY: This commentary discusses practical tips for physicians including guidance around administrative and governance issues, preparation for telemedicine, involving the multidisciplinary care team, and teaching considerations. We also outline a standard proforma and smart phrases for the electronic health record. A proposed variation of the validated pediatric gait arms legs spine examination (pGALS) called the video pGALS (VpGALS) as a means of conducting virtual pediatric rheumatology physical examination is presented. CONCLUSION: This commentary provides a starting framework for telemedicine use in pediatric rheumatology and further work on validation and acceptability is needed.