Pathways for hybrid care: Modifications in non-pandemic care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic marked an unprecedented shift in the way healthcare was delivered. As health systems continue to recover from the pandemic impact, it is critical to understand how modifications took place to sustain non-pandemic care services during the pandemic. Understanding such modifications to care, particularly those involving digital health, is imperative to build sustainable healthcare services that can ensure access to care under crisis situations and beyond. Methods A scoping review was conducted across five electronic databases with a focus on examining the delivery of non-pandemic care through the use of digital and non-digital care modifications during COVID-19 in the European context. Digital health modifications were included if introduced or scaled up during COVID-19 to support non-pandemic care. Results 163 studies were included for analysis, covering 20 countries across 34 health disciplines. Results showed hybrid care was key to maintaining regular services during the pandemic. Digital health modifications are demonstrated by the creation of digital flows, composed of telehealth systems, digital interventions, and care functions. These modifications facilitated the continuity of care, with interventions such as video and phone consultations playing a crucial role for mitigating disruptions in follow-up care. Conclusions As most health services have returned to pre-pandemic capacity, previously implemented modifications show how systems can be better prepared to respond to crisis situations. Hybrid care pathways represent a unique approach that integrates digital and non-digital care, unlocking access to essential services when they are most needed.