Evaluation of the impact of neurology electronic consults (e-consults): Experiences of a neurology resident clinic in a safety-net hospital.

This article examines the utilization, efficiency, and appropriateness of electronic consults (e-consults)—asynchronous, formalized specialist requests—in a neurology outpatient clinic at Parkland Hospital, a safety-net hospital serving underserved populations. Reviewing 528 neurology e-consults from January to September 2021, the study found that most e-consults, primarily for headache and stroke/neurovascular issues, were answered within one business day, with over 85% deemed appropriate by consulting neurologists. Approximately 41% of patients initially managed via e-consult required subsequent in-person visits within 90 days, suggesting e-consults serve as an effective triage tool to expedite care and reduce unnecessary face-to-face consultations. The findings highlight e-consults as a promising strategy to improve access to neurological expertise in resource-limited settings, though the study notes limitations including its single-center design and reliance on resident physicians under supervision.