Abstract ID: 26-490
A 10-Year Experience with Virtual Video Visits in Oculoplastics: Clinical Utilization, Patient Satisfaction, and Evolving Telemedicine Technologies
Author: Omaya Youssef Base Hospital / Institution: Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
Presentation Type: ePoster Presentation
Purpose
To evaluate a 10-year experience using telemedicine in an oculoplastics practice for eyelid and orbital disorders, characterize utilization patterns of virtual vs in-person visits, identify common conditions managed via telemedicine, assess patient satisfaction, and describe evolution of digital tools supporting remote care.
Methods
A retrospective review of all encounters in a single oculoplastics practice over 10 years was performed. Encounters were categorized as office visits (evaluations, postoperative visits, follow-up visits, procedures) or virtual visits (video and telephone). Diagnoses managed virtually were reviewed to identify common eyelid and orbital conditions. Patient satisfaction and preference for telemedicine vs in-person care were assessed. Telemedicine workflows, platforms, interpreter services, AI-assisted documentation, and photographic capture tools were evaluated.
Results
A total of 15,660 encounters were identified, including 6,086 office visits and 5,201 virtual visits. The most common oculoplastics conditions evaluated through video visits included postoperative follow-up evaluations (1,462), preoperative examinations (275), ptosis (401), dermatochalasis (240), thyroid eye disease (186), orbital inflammatory disease, periocular lesions, and facial nerve-related disorders. Telemedicine was useful for follow-up, postoperative monitoring, and surgical screening. Platforms evolved over time with integration of interpreter services, AI-assisted documentation, and image capture tools. Patient satisfaction was high, with reported benefits including convenience, reduced travel, and improved access.
Conclusion
Telemedicine is a valuable adjunct in oculoplastics care, improving access, efficiency, and continuity for selected conditions. While limitations include reduced ability to perform hands-on examination and diagnostic procedures, patient satisfaction supports continued integration of virtual care. Ongoing advances in digital platforms and AI tools are likely to further enhance its role in oculoplastics practice.