Participants were from across the Scottish mainland and remote islands, and had a range of disability levels. They were recruited via the Scottish MND register which is part of the CARE-MND platform.

The team conducted assessments with research participants using the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) functional rating scale. This is a clinical tool used to assess whether there is functional change in someone with ALS (MND) i.e. handwriting, swallowing etc. The study proved that assessing someone with MND over videoconferencing was as effective as assessments conducted face-to-face.

Participants commented positively on the convenience, reduction in travel time and flexibility of timing and location associated with videoconferencing. All participants were keen to use videoconferencing for future consultations.

The researchers commented that using videoconferencing for research studies also helps people to take part who may not otherwise be able join, for example, those with severe disability and those living remotely. It also enables local therapists and relatives living separately to attend the consultation. Additionally, videoconferencing offers several practical advantages: researchers found that the ability to type free text improved the ease of communication for some participants and that people using assistive communication devices were able to use the chat facility in conjunction with their devices.

Despite the many benefits associated with videoconferencing consultations, 35% of participants in this study felt that face-to-face consultations remain an important part of their care. Others reported that they did not feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics, such as end-of-life care, via videoconferencing or commented on the lack of “touch”.

Videoconferencing is currently being used in the Anne Rowling Clinic as part of the MND-SMART clinical drugs trial and for some NHS appointments.