Virtual care is a double-edged sword: adjusting preventive care service delivery in community health clinics during COVID-19 Journal Article uri icon
Overview
abstract
  • PURPOSE: Qualitatively examine how community health clinics delivered cardiovascular disease (CVD) preventive care during COVID-19 using virtual care and related adaptations. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2021-2022 with nine clinician leaders from four clinics across the country that share an electronic health record. Interviews covered: (1) the pandemic's impact on preventive care delivery, (2) the adaptation and role of virtual care, and (3) management of CVD risk in this context. Collected data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. RESULTS: Staff reported substantial pros and cons to virtual care for CVD risk management. It was seen as useful for general check-ins with patients. However, without current laboratory results and vital measurements, providers found it challenging to assess patient CVD risk and direct care accordingly. CONCLUSION: Findings add to the evolving evidence base that the necessary pivot to virtual care during the pandemic spurred innovations but also created limitations and delays in delivering appropriate preventive care.

  • Link to Article
    publication date
  • 2024
  • Research
    keywords
  • COVID-19
  • Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Coronavirus Infections
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Prevention
  • Qualitative Studies
  • Telemedicine
  • Additional Document Info
    volume
  • 13
  • issue
  • 9