Patient acceptability of virtual follow-up by surgical care practitioners after peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia
Carvell, Jody Radford, Shellie J
Carvell, Jody
Radford, Shellie J
Abstract
Background: There are currently no national guidelines in the UK for outpatient follow-up after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) procedures, despite the increasing application of POEM in managing achalasia. Virtual follow up (VFU), conducted by a surgical care practitioner (SCP) or another non-physician, has not been thoroughly examined in this context. Aim(s): This study explored the opinion of patients regarding the acceptability of VFU undertaken by an SCP following a POEM procedure. Method(s): A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 12 October 2023 to 19 November 2023 at a university teaching hospital tertiary referral centre. A total of 39 patients who met the inclusion criteria were invited, with a response rate of 72% (n=27). Result(s): Responses were received from 15 males (54%) and 12 females (46%). Over half (56%) had follow-up at 6 weeks, while 92% of local area participants were willing to have VFU. A total of 93% accepted SCP-led VFU, with only 7% expressing opposition. Conclusion(s): These findings suggest that SCP-led VFU could improve patient satisfaction and accessibility; however, further qualitative research is necessary to explore potential advantages and disadvantages for a wider population. Copyright © 2025 MA Healthcare Ltd. All rights reserved.
MIDER Authors
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Date
2025-3-2
Type
Article
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Citation
Carvell, J. and Radford, S.J. (2025) 'Patient acceptability of virtual follow-up by surgical care practitioners after peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia', Gastrointestinal Nursing, 23(2). doi: 10.12968/gasn.2024.0074 https://doi.org/10.12968/gasn.2024.0074.