The use of text-messaging for telecommunications with patients in otolaryngology: A narrative review

Objective: To compile and analyze the available literature regarding the use of text-messaging for communicating with patients in otolaryngology. Study design: Narrative review. Methods: Using the PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsychINFO databases, a review of the literature examining for articles that discuss the usage and applications of text-messaging services in otolaryngology-based practice was conducted. Studies were categorized into six groups by content, depending upon their specific applications: Access, Engagement, Expert Model, Monitoring, No-Show, and Triage. Results: From 402 search results, we obtained 59 results that met inclusion criteria, from which there were 11 distinct studies included in this review. All studies found that the use of smartphones in otolaryngology is feasible and can lead to improved outcomes or increased patient engagement in their treatment. The study which was coded “Expert Model” provided a framework for creating a text-message-based platform for application in otolaryngology. Conclusion: The current literature suggests that using mobile text-messaging is a feasible method of increasing patient engagement in treatment, improving outcomes, and monitoring patients' treatment progress and concerns over time. However, further research is required to quantify the benefits of the varied uses of text-messaging for different patient populations.