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Exploring Person-Centred Care in Video Consultations: Experiences of Swedish Dietitians and Their Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic [PCC107]

Tuesday May 5, 2026 12:00 - 11:15 Poster Arena

Presenter: Sarah Persson

Track: Poster

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a rapid shift in healthcare delivery, with video consultations (VCs) becoming a widely adopted alternative to face-to-face interactions. While VCs offered a safe and accessible solution, their impact on the quality and personalization of care remains underexplored, particularly in dietetic practice. This study investigates how Swedish Registered Dietitians (RDs) and their patients experienced and perceived VCs, with a specific focus on person-centred care. Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted between 2021 and 2023, involving surveys, semi-structured interviews, and observational data from clinical settings. Participants included Swedish RDs and patients who had engaged in VCs. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns related to the use and perceptions of VCs and their influence on care relationships, communication, and care quality. Results: VCs were generally perceived as contributing to good and close healthcare, offering flexibility, accessibility, and continuity during uncertain times. However, the choice of consultation modality was often made by the RDs, with limited patient involvement. While RDs consistently acted in the patients’ best interest, they did not always actively seek or incorporate individual preferences or perceptions into the consultation process. Patients appreciated the option of choosing VCs when it aligned with their needs and the consultation agenda. These findings reveal a gap between professional intentions and the practical realisation of person-centred care in remote settings. Conclusion: To enhance the quality of remote dietetic care, healthcare providers must prioritise individual considerations and foster shared decision-making. Enabling patients to choose their consultation modality—whether face-to-face or video—can be viewed as an initial and essential step toward person-centred care, even before treatment begins.
Language

English

Conference

GCPCC

GCPCC Code

PCC107

Lecturers

Profile image for Sarah Persson

Sarah Persson Presenter

PhD student
Umeå University

Sarah Persson, Cecilia Olsson, Anette Edin-Liljegren, Karin Danielsson, Petra Rydén