Introduction
In the evolving landscape of healthcare, virtual care has become a significant mode of service delivery, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the transition to virtual care presents unique challenges and opportunities. A recent study titled “Can you hear me now?”: a qualitative exploration of communication quality in virtual primary care encounters for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities provides insights into how virtual modalities affect communication in primary care settings.
Key Findings from the Study
The study identified four critical elements of communication impacted by virtual care:
- Patient Engagement: Virtual appointments can affect the level of patient participation, with some patients finding it challenging to engage without physical presence.
- Hearing and Being Heard: The ability to clearly hear and be heard can be compromised, particularly in phone encounters, due to technical issues or hearing impairments.
- Nonverbal Communication: Video offers advantages over telephone by allowing some nonverbal communication, though it still falls short of in-person interactions.
- Building Trust: Establishing a connection and trust can be more challenging virtually, affecting the quality of communication.
Practical Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners working with patients with IDD, understanding these elements can significantly enhance communication quality in virtual care settings. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Choose the Right Modality: Assess whether video or telephone is more suitable for each patient. Video is generally preferred for maintaining engagement and facilitating nonverbal communication.
- Enhance Technical Proficiency: Ensure that both practitioners and patients are comfortable with the technology used for virtual appointments. This includes proper audio and video setup to minimize technical disruptions.
- Utilize Visual Aids: Where possible, incorporate visual aids in video calls to support communication, especially for patients who rely on visual cues.
- Build Rapport: Take extra steps to build rapport and trust with patients and caregivers, which may involve additional time and effort in virtual settings.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, further research is necessary to develop comprehensive guidelines for optimizing communication in virtual care for patients with IDD. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in ongoing research and training to improve their skills in this area.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: “Can you hear me now?”: a qualitative exploration of communication quality in virtual primary care encounters for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
