The rapid shift to virtual health care during the COVID-19 pandemic has opened new avenues for providing care to various populations, including adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). A recent scoping review titled Virtual health care for adult patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A scoping review sheds light on how virtual care can be both a challenge and an opportunity for this group.
Adults with IDD often face barriers such as limited access to technology and the skills to use it, which can impede their ability to benefit from virtual health care. However, the review found that with proper support, virtual care can significantly improve access and quality of care. Here are some key takeaways for practitioners looking to enhance their virtual care delivery:
- Acceptability: Most patients and caregivers reported positive experiences with virtual care, although some still preferred face-to-face interactions. Ensuring that the virtual platforms are user-friendly and that patients are comfortable with the technology can increase acceptability.
- Availability and Accommodation: Technical issues such as poor internet connection and lack of familiarity with virtual platforms were common challenges. Providing technical support and ensuring that caregivers are trained to assist can mitigate these issues.
- Appropriateness: Virtual care was found to be effective in delivering various health interventions, including assessments and ongoing treatment programs. However, it is crucial to ensure that the type of care provided is suitable for virtual delivery.
For practitioners, these findings suggest that virtual care can be a viable option for adults with IDD, but it requires thoughtful implementation. Here are some steps you can take to improve your virtual care services:
- Assess the Technology Needs: Evaluate the technology needs of your patients and ensure they have access to the necessary devices and internet connections.
- Provide Training: Offer training sessions for both patients and caregivers to familiarize them with the virtual platforms you use.
- Ensure Support: Have a support system in place to troubleshoot technical issues and assist patients during virtual visits.
- Customize Care: Tailor your virtual care approaches to meet the specific needs of each patient, considering their comfort levels and the type of care required.
As we navigate the post-pandemic world, the integration of virtual care into regular health services for adults with IDD can offer numerous benefits. However, it is essential to continue researching and refining these approaches to ensure they are as effective and accessible as possible.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Virtual health care for adult patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A scoping review.
