Satisfaction of adult and pediatric neurologists and neurosurgeons using telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study.

Objectives: Telehealth has become increasingly important in achieving universal health coverage. It offers doctors and their patients' convenience, including providing quality care at reduced costs. During the coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic, telehealth has been a vital tool for remote healthcare services. This study aimed to assess the satisfaction of adult and pediatric neurologists and neurosurgeons using telehealth, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This study had 348 participants. It was conducted among adult and pediatric neurologists and neurosurgeons using telehealth technology at their clinics between February and June 2021. The self-administered questionnaire included sociodemographic data, behavior in using telehealth, and an assessment of satisfaction with telehealth; the SPSS Windows software version 26 was used to analyze the data. Results: The most common age group was 25-34 years (42.8%), with men dominating (68.4%). The mean satisfaction score was 25.9 (SD 3.91) out of 33 points, with 90.2% of respondents satisfied with telehealth and 9.8% dissatisfied. Working in an academic center or private hospital, being a first-time telehealth user, using messages as a telehealth method, and using telehealth daily were associated with increased satisfaction with telehealth use. Conclusion: The satisfaction of adult and pediatric neurologists and neurosurgeons with telehealth was high. Although physicians still preferred face-to-face interviews, they recognized the benefits of telehealth in strengthening the patient-provider relationship, improving productivity, and integrating into daily workflows. The satisfaction levels align with past studies, but physical examination needs should be considered. Telehealth is suitable for follow-up visits and varies across subspecialties.