Pediatr Rheumatol
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The use of telemedicine in pediatric rheumatology has been historically low. The current COVID 19 global pandemic has forced a paradigm shift with many centers rapidly adopting virtual visits to conduct care resulting in rapid expansion of use of telemedicine amongst practices. BODY: This commentary discusses practical tips for physicians including guidance around administrative and governance issues, preparation for telemedicine, involving the multidisciplinary care team, and teaching considerations. We also outline a standard proforma and smart phrases for the electronic health record. A proposed variation of the validated pediatric gait arms legs spine examination (pGALS) called the video pGALS (VpGALS) as a means of conducting virtual pediatric rheumatology physical examination is presented. ⋯ This commentary provides a starting framework for telemedicine use in pediatric rheumatology and further work on validation and acceptability is needed.
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Letter Review
Glitches in the utilization of telehealth in pediatric rheumatology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Telehealth is an extraordinary advancement of modern medicine. It has increased access to care for underserved populations and, in the case of pediatric rheumatology, has expanded the reach of a limited work force. ⋯ These psychosocial factors may be difficult to assess and triage solely using telehealth. The objective of this short review is to educate practitioners on the psychosocial concerns exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and to discuss the possible hurdles in utilization of telehealth to care for our vulnerable patient population.