Carmona S, Alayed N, Al-Ibrahim A, D'Souza R. Realizing the potential of real-time clinical collaboration in maternal-fetal and obstetric medicine through WhatsApp.
Obstet Med 2018;
11:83-89. [PMID:
29997691 DOI:
10.1177/1753495x18754457]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
This study aimed to explore the potential of using instant messaging to enhance patient-care and physician-education in obstetric medicine and maternal-fetal medicine.
Methods
This retrospective study examined real-time correspondence between a closed group of maternal-fetal medicine physicians and fellows-in-training. Correspondence was grouped into four domains. Time to obtain a response and their utility was analysed.
Results
Over the two-year period, 41 international members contributed 534 clinically relevant messages (291 stems and 243 responses). Of these, 33% were advice seeking, 23.4% case-sharing, 35% educational content and 8.2% miscellaneous content. The median response time was 52 min, and 53% responded in less than 60 min. At least one response in each case influenced clinical management.
Conclusion
Instant messaging is effective for real-time clinical collaboration and could serve as an important platform for enhancing management and continuing education for obstetric medicine and maternal-fetal medicine physicians. International societies should consider exploring this avenue further.
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