Dr Angela White1,2, Ms Jill Davis1, Dr Ernest Tee1,2, Dr Kate McCarthy1,2
1Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Australia, 2University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
Biography:
Dr Angela White is a Clinical Psychologist with a PhD in Psychiatry. She is the Director of Psychology, Royal Brisbane and Woman’s Hospital and adjunct Associate Professor in Psychology, University of Queensland. She has held national policy, training and research roles in digital mental health and virtual health care delivery.
Abstract:
Introduction
‘Virtual Wards’ are virtual models of healthcare that provide acute care and support to patients in their own residence. Metro North Hospital and Health service has utilised this model of care since 2020 for patients with a range of infectious health conditions. The aim of this study was to understand and compare patients’ self-isolation experience in the Virtual Ward vs traditional inpatient hospital settings.
Method
Hospital and Virtual Ward admissions were screened for patients with COVID-19. Along with baseline demographic, health-related quality of life and psychological status data, patients also completed a semi-structured interview that was transcribed and thematically analysed (Nvivo).
Results
Fifty-one patients participated in the study. The in-hospital cohort was less healthy and slightly older than the virtual ward cohort and had higher rates of anxiety and depression. One third of the virtual ward cohort lived alone with 31% residing > 10 kilometres from the nearest hospital. Common themes across both groups were the impact of physical and emotional separation, loneliness, boredom, and the importance of self-isolation. For many in-hospital patients, being in an unfamiliar clinical environment with limited activities was challenging. While interpersonal networks were an important factor identified for those isolating in the home.
Conclusion
Whether isolating at home or in hospital, healthcare teams need to be aware of a patient’s mental health and wellbeing, practical and psychosocial support structures, and the potential challenges of self-isolation. A holistic approach that engages patients in their health care Journey and decision making around self-isolation, is essential.