Rapid implementation of telehealth in geriatric outpatient clinics due to COVID-19

摘要

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the rapid implementation of telehealth. However, little is known about its suitability for the older population. We evaluated the use of telehealth in geriatric outpatient clinics. Half of the appointments needed to be rescheduled due to language barrier, poor connection, hard of hearing and inability to perform assessments. Advantages included time efficiency and ability to visualise the home. Preference for the future was initial appointments as face-face, but reviews as either telehealth or face-face.