Realizing the potential of real-time clinical collaboration in maternal–fetal and obstetric medicine through WhatsApp

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to explore the potential of using instant messaging to enhance patient-care and physician-education in obstetric medicine and maternal-fetal medicine. METHODS: This retrospective study examined real-time correspondence between a closed group of maternal-fetal medicine physicians and fellows-in-training. Correspondence was grouped into four domains. Time to obtain a response and their utility was analysed. RESULTS: Over the two-year period, 41 international members contributed 534 clinically relevant messages (291 stems and 243 responses). Of these, 33% were advice seeking, 23.4% case-sharing, 35% educational content and 8.2% miscellaneous content. The median response time was 52 min, and 53% responded in less than 60 min. At least one response in each case influenced clinical management. CONCLUSION: Instant messaging is effective for real-time clinical collaboration and could serve as an important platform for enhancing management and continuing education for obstetric medicine and maternal-fetal medicine physicians. International societies should consider exploring this avenue further.