Web-based, rapid and contactless management of ambulatory patients for SARS-CoV-2-testing

Abstract BackgroundDuring the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic a mass casualty incident of ambulatory patients occurred at the COVID-19 rapid response infrastructure (CRRI) facility at the University Hospital of Cologne (UHC). We report the development of a patient-centred mobile-device solution to support efficient management of the facility, triage of patients and rapid delivery of test results.MethodsThe UHC-Corona Web Tool (CWT) was developed as a web-based application useable on each patient's smartphone. It provides, among others, a self-reported medical history including type and duration of symptoms and potential risk contacts and links all retrieved information to the digital patient chart via a QR code. It provides scheduling of outpatient appointments and automated transmission of SARS-CoV-2 test results.ResultsThe UHC-CWT was launched on April 9th, 2020. It was used by 28652 patients until August 31st,2020. Of those, 15245 (53,2%) consulted the CRRI, representing 43,1% of all CRRI patients during the observed period.There were 8304 (29,0%) specifications concerning travel history and 17145 (59,8%) indications of ≥1 symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The most frequently indicated symptoms were sore throat (60,0%), headache (50,7%), common cold (45,1%) and cough (42,6%) while 11057 (40,2%) patients did not report any symptoms. After implementation of the UHC-CWT, the number of patient contacts per physician rose from 38 to 98,7 per day. The personnel for communication of test results was reduced from four on seven days to one on five days.ConclusionThe UHC-CWT is an effective digital solution for management of large numbers of outpatients for SARS-CoV-2 testing.