Web-based Visit for Colorectal Surgery

Participants were asked to complete a post-operative survey using an online patient portal, EPIC MyChart, after elective abdominal colon or rectal resection. Participants were also asked to do upload a picture of their incisions. Colorectal surgeons reviewed responses/pictures and communicated concerns/recommendations via the same patient portal. At the in-person follow-up visit, both patients and colorectal surgeons completed a satisfaction survey regarding the both visit types.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 18 or older
• Planned/underwent surgery that was performed by a surgeon in the Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery
• Requires a post-operative follow-up outpatient visit 2-3 weeks from surgery or from discharge from hospital
• Has access to a smart mobile phone, tablet or computer to access online web interface for the web-based visit
• Patients with an Epic MyChart account set up.
• Has ability to take photographs of surgical incision or has access to someone who can take a picture for them.

Exclusion criteria

• Requires visiting nurse services at discharge from hospital
• Cannot use web-based interface or unable to complete questions online
• Cannot read English, speak English, or would require interpreter services. The reason for excluding these patients is there are not yet MyChart services available in non-English languages at Umass Memorial. It would not be fiscally possible to acquire these for a pilot feasibility study. As the MyChart experience is meant to be completed at home, it would not be possible to provider a medical interpreter in a non-office or hospital setting.
• Adults unable to consent (adults lacking capacity)
• Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers)
• Prisoners
• Pregnant women
• Patients undergoing anal surgery