Abstract
Background: We investigated how commonly telehealth is used by people with MS, their satisfaction with telehealth during the COVID-19 period, and recommendations to improve their experiences with telehealth.
Methods: In October-December 2020 we surveyed Australians with MS. We collected demographic, disease- related and social health determinant data, data on telehealth use and experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, and recommendations on telehealth improvements. We conducted univariate analysis to compare factors associated with telehealth use versus no use, established frequencies of experiences and suggestions for improvement, and conducted thematic analysis on free-text suggestions for improvement.
Results: Of the 1485 participants, 69.7% had used telehealth since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were small differences in demographical, disease and social health determinants to explain telehealth use.Most participants who used telehealth had good or very good experiences (74.3%). Most common
suggestions to improve telehealth experiences was “guidance on preparing for telehealth sessions” (n = 545, 60%). Themes of expansion in telehealth availability and expansion to physical test and physical treatments were wanted by participants.
Conclusion: Persons with MS in Australia commonly used telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic and were generally satisfied with their experiences. Implementing the suggested improvements will further optimise the use of telehealth.