Researchers from the University of Oxford found that remote consultations with a doctor via video or phone increase the likelihood of prescribing the wrong treatment, making a misdiagnosis, and also expose patients to the risk of exacerbations of existing diseases. Research results published In BMJ (British Medical Journal).
The team looked at data from 95 health safety incidents in Britain between 2020 and 2023. Scientists analyzed the complaints received, reports and resolved claims. It turned out that some doctors involved in the treatment considered the preliminary diagnosis (or lack thereof) made during the video appointment as the final decision. This has led to many medical errors resulting in heart defects, diabetes and death in cancer patients.
In other cases, doctors failed to detect serious illnesses such as pulmonary embolism and sepsis. Patients were dying early as a result of misdiagnosis and wrong treatment.
Remote consultations have become popular due to the need to comply with long-term self-isolation during the coronavirus outbreak. Patients with pre-existing conditions are particularly difficult to evaluate over the phone, the researchers noted. Professor Tricia Greenhalgh, lead author of the study from Oxford University, said organizational pressure and poor communication led to medical errors.
The scientists also noted that it was not their purpose to suggest the need to cancel remote consultations. They hope their work will contribute to improving ways to ensure the quality and safety of such techniques.
Previous scientists compared Brain activity during live communication and video calls.