Webside manner: maskless communication

Abstract

Telemedicine has seen a rapid expansion lately, with virtual visits ushering in telediagnosis. Given the shift in the interpersonal and technical aspects of communications in a virtual visit, it is prudent to understand its effect on the patient-provider relationships. A range of interpersonal and communication skills can be utilized during telemedicine consultations in establishing relationships, and reaching a diagnosis. We propose a construct of “webside manner,” a structured approach to ensure the core elements of bedside etiquette are translated into the virtual encounter. This approach entails the totality of any interpersonal exchange on a virtual platform, to ensure a clinician’s presence, empathy and compassion is translated through this medium.

Improving shared decision making in virtual breast cancer surgery consultations

“…Surgeons should be thoughtful about their “webside manner” (which has some important differences from the “bedside manner”). 35 , 46 , 47 , 48 Key behaviors include clear enunciation, making eye contact, using a well-lit space with professional background, and limiting off-screen gestures. 34 , 35 In addition, telehealth technology can make it difficult for patients to interrupt when the surgeon is speaking, limiting opportunities for patient input.…”

Patient behaviors during virtual clinic encounters in palliative care

“…On the other hand, technical and language difficulties can compromise these advantages (Hancock et al, 2019), while the settings and patient behavior in virtual healthcare can also create unique challenges. "Webside manner" (Mehta and Mathews, 2022) and incorporating standards of telehealth behavior training (Gustin et al, 2020) are assisting clinicians in translating in person skill sets to virtual visits. For many patients, though, exposure to telehealth remains new and without guidelines, leaving appropriate behavior for a virtual clinical encounter unclear.…”