1791PPatients and physicians’ satisfaction with telemedicine (TM) in cancer care and factors that correlate with a positive patient’s experience

Abstract Background TM is a useful tool that improves access to medical care for rural residents. However, factors that correlate with a positive TM experience are not well known. The study aims to determine TM experience in cancer patients and physicians, and to explore clinical and socio-economic factors (CSF) that are associated with a positive TM experience in patients. Methods In this cross-sectional study cancer patients on active treatment and physicians in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada completed a paper-based comprised of 32 items or an electronic survey of 18 items, respectively. Six point likert score was used. Logistic regression analysis was done to assess correlation between self-reported CSF and a positive TM experience. We present here preliminary results. Results Overall 25 physicians and 165 patients responded to the survey over a period of three months. Among physicians 69% were in practice for ≥10 yrs with M:F of 1.7:1. 94% were confident in their TM assessment, 58% felt that TM improve clinical efficiency, and 74% felt that doctor-patient rapport was unimpaired with TM. Of 165 patients with median age of 67 years (IQR 59-75) and M:F of 1.06:1, 60% were ≥65 yrs, 70% were married, and 82% had a dependent family member. 94% were born in Canada, 77% were Caucasian, 29% were working and 35% had annual income of  Conclusions This study supports a higher rate of positive TM experience in cancer patients and physicians. However, high preference of TM was noted among patient compared with physicians. Among various variables examined only older age was associated with a positive TM experience. Legal entity responsible for the study Shahid Ahmed. Funding Has not received any funding. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.