Precision and Virtual Care

TL;DR

This paper discusses how virtual care can be improved by matching the complexity of technology with patient needs, especially in the context of the pandemic.

Contribution

The paper introduces a framework for aligning technology and patient complexity to achieve precision virtual care.

Findings

Virtual care technologies vary in complexity and can be matched to patient needs for better outcomes.

A framework is proposed to evaluate virtual care based on both technology and patient complexity.

Appropriate alignment of technology and patient context can lead to improved care delivery.

Abstract

The importance of virtual care has been highlighted by the recent pandemic which emphasized the need for effectively providing care remotely. In addition, the development of a range of emerging technologies to support virtual care has accelerated this trend. Technologies may vary in complexity from low (e.g., technologies that can be used easily by patients) to high (e.g., use of sophisticated software and hardware to support virtual care). In this article virtual care is first defined, followed by a discussion of a range of virtual care technologies. A framework is then described that can be used to consider and reason about virtual care in terms of both technology complexity as well as patient complexity. Examples of virtual care that can be considered using the framework are provided. It is argued that achieving an appropriate fit between the level of complexity of the technology involved and patient context will lead to improved care and ultimately precision virtual care. Implications of the approach presented are explored.

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