Study Objectives
The cumulative burden of the COVID-19 virus on the US healthcare system is substantial. To help mitigate this burden, novel solutions including tele-health and dedicated screening facilities have been utilized. However, there is limited data on the efficacy of such models and none assessing patient comfort levels with these changes in health care delivery. The aim of our study was to evaluate patients’ perceptions of a drive through medical treatment system in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, NMCP’s emergency department established a drive-through medical evaluation facility (DMEF) in proximity to the emergency department. The DMEF was designed to allow full evaluation of patients to include: vital signs, complete medical history, clinician physical examination, limited point-of-care testing and medication distribution. All patients presenting to the emergency department with symptoms of potential COVID etiology and deemed non-critical were directed to the DMEF for initial evaluation. Patients were surveyed about their experience following their visit. An anonymous questionnaire consisting of 5 questions, utilizing a 5-point Likert scale was distributed via electronic tablet.
Results
A total of 827 responses were obtained over two months. Three quarters of respondents believed care received was similar to that in a traditional emergency department. Overall positive impression of the drive-thru was 86.6%, and 95% believed that it was more convenient.
Conclusion
Overall the drive-thru medical system was perceived as more convenient than the emergency department, and is viewed as a positive experience. While a dramatic change in the delivery model of medical care, if such systems are able to provide comparable levels of care, they may represent a viable option for sustained and surge health care delivery.