Date of Publication

2021

Project Team

Nancy Resi

Abstract

Background: Early diagnosis and timely follow-up of cognitive decline are essential to preserve individual function and memory, improve quality of life, and decrease healthcare costs. Many barriers to in-person assessment exist, the most recent one being COVID-19. Video-telemedicine has been studied as a solution with promising results. Most notably, research shows that the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) administered via video-telemedicine has comparable results to in-person assessment.

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to implement cognitive testing via video-telemedicine for follow-up management of cognitive impairment and dementia.

Methods: A protocol for conducting the MMSE via Zoom was developed. Next, an E-learning module was created to provide education on the new protocol to increase successful use. The protocol and E-learning were sent to 10 providers and 11 nurse practitioner students. Lastly, a survey was administered to measure participants’ confidence and comfort with the protocol and perceived usefulness of the protocol.

Results: Thirteen out of 21 participants completed the survey. Average scores for overall confidence per question ranged from 83-96% confident. Open ended questions showed that 84% of participants felt comfortable using the protocol and 92% found the protocol useful.

Conclusion: This project created a standardized, evidence-based way for providers to perform follow up visits of patients with cognitive decline when barriers to in-person assessment exist. Implementation of this project allows for continuity of care and timely intervention in these individuals, which benefits patients and caregivers, and has the potential to decrease healthcare costs.

Document Type

Project

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