Telehealth Videoconferencing for Children With Hemophilia and Their Families

Abstract

Telehealth is the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance health care. It supports quality health care that is accessible, and time- and cost-effective. Telehealth videoconferencing may enhance the care for hemophilia patients who are experiencing a bleed by supporting real-time detailed assessment including appearance, range of motion, and ambulation in addition to the traditional phone methods of verbal description of appearance, pain, and function. The aim of this clinical project was to evaluate the feasibility of using telehealth videoconferencing in children with severe hemophilia in the home setting. Twelve patients with severe hemophilia ages 2to 18 years, who had more than 2 breakthrough bleeds in the past year, and had Internet access with a computer camera were included. The incidence of bleeding was low; however, videoconferencing was effective for 3 patients who completed 4 video appointments. Patients and staff reported that videoconferencing improved communication and satisfaction. Telehealth videoconferencing is a feasible tool for managing bleeding disorders in the home setting.