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Abstract

Background: The global incidence in the treatment of people with cancer is increasing. In the COVID-19 pandemic, many consultations had to be cancelled, postponed or converted to a virtual format. Telemedicine serves as a treatment option in other medical disciplines. This study analyses the use and perception of telemedicine as a therapeutic option in gynecologic cancer care management in Germany.

Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was based on a survey of gynecological oncologists and patients in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Regression analyses were performed to show correlations.

Results: We analyzed the responses of 529 patients and 402 gynecological oncologists. Most believed that telemedicine is useful. Physicians as well as patients rated their knowledge of telemedicine as unsatisfactory. The majority of respondents said they do not currently use telemedicine, although would like to do so. Patients and physicians reported that their attitude had changed positively towards telemedicine and that their usage had increased due to COVID-19. The majority in both groups agreed on implementing virtual visits in stable disease conditions.

Conclusion: Telemedicine as a therapeutic option in gynecologic cancer care management finds limited use but high acceptance among physicians and patients alike.

Keywords: Health; Telemedicine; Health services research; COVID-19; Gynecological oncology