The concept of virtual clinics in monitoring patients with age-related macular degeneration

PurposeTo present clinical results regarding the treatment of patients with age-related macular degeneration (neovascular form) after the implementation of a virtual' type of follow-up in a single retina service centre. MethodsRetrospective study based on the clinical records of the Leicester Royal Infirmary Retina department. Two periods were compared, the 2-year period of 2011-2012 and the following one of 2012-2013 when the virtual' clinics model applied in the department. Primary outcomes were as follows: the time between two appointments, follow-up or treatment and the number of patients with significant (>15 letters) improvement of their best corrected distance visual acuity. Secondary parameters of interest were as follows: mean number of injections per patient/year and the average duration of a virtual' vs. a regular visit. ResultsThe mean time interval between two appointments was 5.3weeks following the implementation of the virtual' clinics compared to 6.9weeks in the previous period of regular appointments. Mean visual acuity improvement >15 letters was achieved in 6.9% of the patients compared to 23.1% of the virtual' appointments period. The results regarding injections/patient/year were as follows: 5.6 before the model of virtual' appointments and 5.9 after the implementation. The average time a patient spent for a conventional visit was 71.424.1min, and the respective time needed in the virtual clinic was 47.3 +/- 18.6min. ConclusionThe model of virtual' (without actual consultation) follow-up appointments assisted our service to contend with the increased number of patient. In general, the specific pattern of patients' management could be widely considered obviously after comprehensive and all-embracing assessment of its safety and efficiency.