Telemedicine in the treatment of gestational diabetes: pregnancy outcomes and maternal satisfaction

PURPOSE The treatment of gestational diabetes requires several outpatient visits, from diagnosis until delivery, to prevent maternal and fetal complications associated to hyperglycemia. In literature there is poor evidence about the telemedicine systems superiority in improving pregnancy outcomes, in women with gestational diabetes. The aim of the study is to evaluate the maternal and fetal outcomes and the degree of satisfaction in gestational diabetes treatment, through exclusive telemedicine versus outpatient follow-up. METHODS 62 consecutive women with gestational diabetes were recruited by the Diabetology Unit of Ferrara: 29 randomized to a weekly remote control (telemedicine group); 33 checked in presence every two or three weeks (conventional group). To assess satisfaction with diabetes care, 58 women replied postpartum to the modied Oxford Maternity Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire. RESULTS No statistically signicant differences were found in most of the obstetric and neonatal clinical parameters evaluated in both groups. The analysis of the questionnaire answers showed favorable scores in all areas explored. Telemedicine follow-up makes women feel more controlled (P= 0.007) and ts better to their lifestyle (P = 0.001). It also emerged that almost all women treated with telemedicine would recommend this method to a relative or a friend. CONCLUSION Telemedicine follow-up proved to be safe both on metabolic control and pregnancy outcomes; furthermore, it signicantly decreases outpatient visits and increases women satisfaction. Studying the impact of telemedicine is also necessary, considering the diculties associated with the Sars-COV-2 pandemic. In the future, it is desirable to expand the cohort of patients.