Rapid implementation of virtual clinics due to COVID-19: report and early evaluation of a quality improvement initiative.

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak has placed the National Health Service under significant strain. Social distancing measures were introduced in the UK in March 2020 and virtual consultations (via telephone or video call) were identified as a potential alternative to face-to-face consultations at this time.

Local Problem: The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) sees on average 11 200 face-to-face consultations a month.