Adoption of telemedicine care for osteoporotic patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: experience from a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia

SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine care provided to osteoporotic patients in Saudi Arabia. Our results show that this service was effective and feasible, and patients had a good rate of satisfaction with it. PURPOSE: To investigate the efficacy and feasibility of telemedicine care in osteoporotic patients during the COVID-19 lockdown period in Saudi Arabia compared to in-person patients, as well as their satisfaction with this service. METHODS: This observational retrospective study was conducted between March 2021 and September 2021 in King Saud University Medical City, Saudi Arabia. A survey was used to compare patients attending telemedicine clinics with in-person patients in terms of access and adherence to medications, occurrence of new fractures, and overall satisfaction with this service. RESULTS: 195 patients attended the telemedicine clinic, while 63 attended the in-person clinic. Exercise frequency was similar in both groups, although exercise intensity was greater in the in-person group. 25(OH)D levels were stable in both groups. The availability and delay of supply of osteoporosis medications were not statistically different between both groups while adherence to treatment did not differ significantly between the two groups. The majority of patients in the telemedicine group were satisfied. CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine care was feasible and effective in managing osteoporotic patients during the COVID-19 epidemic. Such service could be considered in the future for managing disabled patients and those living in remote areas.