141st APHA Annual Meeting

In This section

287129
Using a novel telemedicine aid to communicate clinical research findings

Monday, November 4, 2013 : 8:50 AM - 9:10 AM

David Voccola , Prometheus Research, LLC, New Haven, CT
Ben Lawlor , Prometheus Research, LLC, New Haven, CT
Patricia Schantz , Prometheus Research, LLC, New Haven, CT
Naralys Sinanis , Prometheus Research, LLC, New Haven, CT
Wendy Chung , Columbia University, New York, NY
John Spiro , The Simons Foundation, New York, NY
Background: We tested the iPad as a novel telemedicine aid to facilitate communication of incidental findings between neurologists and families participating in the Simons Variation in Individuals Project. We aimed to address two issues: (1) how to share findings with offsite patients in compliance with HIPAA; and (2) how to overcome related technological barriers for families (e.g., computer availability, unreliable data connections). Methods: We used an iPad 2 3G with Fuze installed. We piloted with one site before expanding to four. Site staff shipped the iPad to a participating family, and the neurologist used Fuze on a local computer to remotely review images or videos in real-time with the family. Participants shipped the iPad back to the site after the consultation was complete. Neurologists and Study Coordinators at all sites were then surveyed about their experience. Results: A total of eight staff members representing all five sites responded to our survey. Approximately 75% reported a need to communicate incidental findings to remote families. Of this group, 100% reported using Fuze alone, and 66% reported using the iPad and Fuze together. 100% of those who reported using the iPad would recommend this setup to other studies. Conclusions: Preliminary findings suggest: (1) secure videoconferencing is a viable option for patient groups with access to computers; and (2) the iPad is a viable option for patient groups with limited access to computers. Future directions include implementation with a larger sample and a cost/convenience comparison. Barriers to applying this technique with underserved populations or with international communities should be addressed.

Learning Areas:
Communication and informatics
Conduct evaluation related to programs, research, and other areas of practice
Implementation of health education strategies, interventions and programs
Public health or related research

Learning Objectives:
Describe how to use the iPad and Fuze Meeting (“Fuze”, an online and iOS app that enables secure videoconferencing and image sharing) to communicate neurological findings remotely. Identify possible applications of the iPad and Fuze Meeting for communicating findings in their research.

Keywords: Telemedicine, Interactive Communication

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am a senior consultant on large autism and biomedical research projects. I contribute to all phases of the engagement process to model and support complex laboratory requirements. I have spent nearly a decade designing intuitive user experiences.
Any relevant financial relationships? Yes

Name of Organization Clinical/Research Area Type of relationship
Prometheus Research, LLC Informatics Employment (includes retainer) and Stock Ownership

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.