Evaluación de la usabilidad de la teleconsulta durante la pandemia por COVID-19 en un hospital pediátrico / Assessment of the usability of teleconsultations during the COVID-19 pandemic at a children's hospital

Introducción. La usabilidad en un sistema de teleconsulta afecta directamente la eficiencia y efectividad de la atención médica remota. Objetivo. Evaluar la usabilidad de la teleconsulta durante la pandemia por COVID-19. Población y método. Estudio de corte transversal. Incluimos a los cuidadores de niños/as de 1 mes a 12 años. Evaluamos la usabilidad mediante el Telehealth Usability Questionnaire adaptado en español. Además, evaluamos datos socioeconómicos. Resultados. Tasa de respuesta del 70,2 % (n = 221). La mayoría eran mujeres, edad promedio 33 años, con educación secundaria y cobertura de salud pública. El 87,8 % eligió atención telefónica y el 88,2 % tenía su primera teleconsulta. Alta satisfacción general con puntuaciones menores en facilidad de uso y aprendizaje en videollamadas. Conclusión. La teleconsulta mostró alta usabilidad, independientemente de la modalidad, para cuidadores de niños/as de 1 mes a 12 años.

Introduction. Usability in a telemedicine system directly affects the efficiency and effectiveness of remote health care. Objective. To assess the usability of teleconsultations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Population and method. This was a cross-sectional study. The caregivers of children aged 1 month to 12 years were included. Usability was assessed with the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire, adapted to Spanish. Socioeconomic data were also assessed. Results. The response rate was 70.2% (n = 221). Most responders were women whose average age was 33 years, had completed secondary education and had public health insurance. Of them, 87.8% selected telephone health care and 88.2% had their first teleconsultation. The overall satisfaction was high, with lower scores for ease of use and learning how to use video calls. Conclusion. Regardless of modality, the usability of teleconsultations by caregivers of children aged 1 month to 12 years was adequate.

Mayor uso de teleconsultas programadas y mensajería asincrónica del portal en atención primaria / Increased Use of Scheduled Teleconsultations and Asynchronous Portal Messaging in Primary Care

Introducción: durante la pandemia de COVID-19 hubo un auge sin precedentes de la telemedicina, probablemente por la forzada adopción de tecnología ante las medidas restrictivas. El presente estudio se propuso comparar la interacción y la comunicación entre médicos de cabecera (MC) y pacientes, antes y durante el período de pandemia, en términos de consultas ambulatorias programadas y mensajes del Portal de Salud. Materiales y métodos: corte transversal con muestreo consecutivo de turnos programados y mensajes, ocurridos entre las semanas epidemiológicas (SE) 10 y 23, de 2019 y 2020, respectivamente. Se incluyeron 147 médicos del Servicio de Medicina Familiar y Comunitaria, y una cápita de 73 427 pacientes afiliados al Plan de Salud del Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires. Se realizó análisis cuantitativo y cualitativo. Resultados: hubo una reducción del 70% de las consultas presenciales (de 76 375 en 2019 a 23 200 en 2020) y un aumento concomitante de teleconsultas (de 255 en la SE13 a 1089 en la SE23). En simultáneo, los mensajes aumentaron sustancialmente (de 28 601 en 2019 a 84 916 en 2020), con un inicio abrupto al comienzo del confinamiento, y una tendencia decreciente a lo largo del tiempo. Antes de la pandemia, el contenido estuvo relacionado con órdenes electrónicas de estudios complementarios, control de resultados, recetas de medicación crónica y/o interconsultas a especialistas, mientras que los dominios más frecuentes durante la pandemia fueron necesidades informativas epidemiológicas, como medidas preventivas para COVID-19, vacuna antineumocócica, vacuna antigripal, casos o sospechas, resultados de hisopados, entre otras. Conclusión: el auge de las tecnologías de la comunicación e información durante la pandemia permitió dar continuidad a los procesos asistenciales en salud pese al distanciamiento físico. Hubo mayor utilización de mensajería por necesidades informativas de los pacientes, y la relación médico-paciente se ha modificado. (AU)

Introduction: during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an unprecedented boom in telemedicine, probably due to the forced adoption of technology in the face of restrictive measures. This study aimed to compare the interaction and communication between general practitioners and patients before and during the pandemic based on scheduled outpatient consultations and Health Portal messages. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study with a consecutive sampling of scheduled appointments and messages, occurring between epidemiological weeks (EW) 10 and 23 of 2019 and 2020, respectively. We included 147 physicians from the Family and Community Medicine Service and a capita of 73427 patients affiliated with the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires health plan. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results: there was a 70% reduction in face-to-face consultations (from 76375 in 2019 to 23200 in 2020) and a concomitant increase in teleconsultations (from 255 in EW13 to 1089 in EW23). Concurrently, messages increased substantially (from 28601 in 2019 to 84916 in 2020), with an abrupt onset at the beginning of confinement and a decreasing trend over time. Before the pandemic, the content involved electronic orders for complementary studies, outcome monitoring, chronic medication prescriptions, or expert consultations. The most frequent domains during the pandemic were epidemiological information needs, such as preventive measures for COVID-19, pneumococcal vaccine, influenza vaccine, cases or suspicions, and swab results, among others. Conclusion: the rise of communication and information technologies during the pandemic allowed the continuity of healthcare processes despite the physical distance. There was increased use of messaging for patients' information needs, and the doctor-patient relationship has changed. (AU)

Telemedicine Effectiveness in the First Elective Orthopedic Care Compared to a Standard Face-to-face Visit / Efetividade da teleconsulta no primeiro atendimento ortopédico eletivo comparada ao padrão presencial

Abstract Objective The study aimed to compare whether the diagnoses of orthopedic diseases at telemedicine (TM) consultations are the same as those established at face-to-face visits. Method Primary, observational, prospective, analytical study, with subjects from the local municipal network who were referred to the orthopedics outpatient clinic from May to June 2021. Subjects underwent two assessments: a telemedicine (TM) consultation and a face-to-face (FF) visit. Two different physicians attended to the patients and established a diagnosis. The physician performing the FF visit was not aware of the previous diagnoses. We compared the diagnoses obtained at both modalities to assess the degree of similarity. In addition, we determined the time required for consultations and the degree of satisfaction of the physicians. Results We evaluated 43 patients and seven physicians, totaling 44 TM and 43 FF visits. The diagnostic similarity index was 81.4%. TM consultations were shorter (mean time, 4.8 minutes) than FF visits. Physicians were less satisfied with TM in the four criteria evaluated (respective scores of 79.1, 23.3, 46.6, and 37.2). Conclusion TM consultations have a diagnoses agreement higher than 80% compared with FF visits. On the other hand, TM consultations were faster, and physicians were less satisfied with them in comparison with FF visits.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do estudo foi comparar se os diagnósticos das doenças ortopédicas realizados por teleconsulta (TC) são os mesmos dos atendimentos presenciais. Método Estudo primário, observacional, prospectivo, analítico, com dados colhidos de maio a junho de 2021, com participantes provenientes da rede municipal local que foram encaminhados ao ambulatório de ortopedia de referência e oferecida participação no estudo com duas avaliações: a primeira por teleatendimento e a segunda de forma presencial. Cada participante foi atendido por dois diferentes profissionais, e cada um emitiu um diagnóstico. Os profissionais do atendimento presencial não conheciam os diagnósticos prévios. Os diagnósticos emitidos foram comparados para avaliar o grau de semelhança. Ainda, foi aferido o tempo para realização dos atendimentos e o grau de satisfação do profissional participante. Resultados Foram avaliados 43 pacientes e 07 profissionais participaram, totalizando 44 TC e 43 atendimentos presenciais. O índice de semelhança do diagnóstico foi de 81,4%. A TC teve um tempo menor para realização (média de 4,8 minutos), que o presencial. A satisfação dos profissionais foi menor na TC nos quatro critérios avaliados, sendo, respectivamente, 79,1, 23,3, 46,6 e 37,2. Conclusão A TC tem concordância no diagnóstico superior a 80% em comparação ao atendimento presencial. Já a realização do teleatendimento teve menor tempo de duração e os profissionais se consideraram menos satisfeitos em relação ao atendimento presencial.

ARDS with septic shock managed successfully using a multidisciplinary approach: A case report

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an inflammatory process in the lungs that results in hypoxemia and decreased lung compliance. Invasive mechanical ventilation and prone positioning have proven benefits in the management of patients with severe ARDS. Post-extubation rehabilitation programs are equally important for the recovery of these patients. We are reporting the case of a 30-year-old male with severe ARDS where lung protective ventilation, timely intubation, early prone positioning, multidisciplinary communication, and post-discharge follow-up with teleconsultation were used under expert supervision in the successful management of the case

Acceptability of teleconsultation in a public service specialized in the prevention and care of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections / Aceitabilidade da teleconsulta em um serviço público especializado na prevenção e cuidado da infecção pelo HIV e outras infecções sexualmente transmissíveis

Introduction: Telemedicine was leveraged for its contribution to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in Brazil and worldwide. Objective: We aim to evaluate the acceptability of incorporating teleconsultation through synchronized videoconference by users and professionals in a service specialized in the prevention and treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus and other sexually transmitted infections, and to identify associated factors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 410 users and 57 professionals who answered a category-standardized questionnaire. Predictors of acceptability were assessed using logistic regression model. Results: A total of 364 (88.8%) users said they would accept the modality. The factors positively associated with the odds of acceptance were the self-assessment of having favorable conditions to participate in a teleconsultation (aOR 54.8; 95%CI 12.4­242.1; p<0.001), the perception of saving money (aOR 5.2; 95%CI 1.9­14.0; p=0.001), and perceived convenience of the modality (aOR 6.7; 95%CI 2.9­15.9; p<0.001). Factors associated with reduced odds of acceptance were the fear of not being evaluated well (aOR 0.2; 95%CI 0.1­0.4; p<0.001), or remaining long without seeing the professional (aOR 0.2; 95%CI 0.1­0.5; p<0.001). The acceptance of the modality among professionals was 75.4% and the perception of its convenience (aOR 16.8; 95%CI 2.6­108.4; p=0.003) and that the institution has appropriated conditions (aOR 7.7; 95%CI 1.5­40.6; p=0.016) were associated with increased odds of accepting its incorporation in their routine. Conclusion: Governance should invest in infrastructure and support, secure protocols, digital literacy, and training of its users and employees for video teleconsultation. (AU)

Introdução: A telemedicina foi alavancada por sua contribuição para mitigar o impacto da COVID-19 no Brasil e no mundo. Objetivo: Pretendemos avaliar a aceitabilidade da incorporação da teleconsulta por videoconferência síncrona por usuários e profissionais de um serviço especializado na prevenção e tratamento da infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) e outras infecções sexualmente transmissíveis, bem como identificar fatores associados. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 410 usuários e 57 profissionais, que responderam a um questionário padronizado por categoria. Os preditores de aceitabilidade foram avaliados utilizando-se um modelo de regressão logística. Resultados: O total de 364 (88,8%) usuários disseram que aceitariam a modalidade. Os fatores positivamente associados à probabilidade de aceitação foram a autoavaliação quanto a ter condições favoráveis para participar de uma teleconsulta (razão de chances ajustada ­ aOR 54,8; intervalo de confiança de 95% ­ IC95% 12,4­242,1; p<0,001), a percepção de poupar dinheiro (aOR 5,2; IC95% 1,9­14,0; p=0,001) e a percepção de conveniência da modalidade (aOR 6,7; IC95% 2,9­15,9; p<0,001). As menores probabilidades de aceitação foram o medo de não ser bem avaliado (aOR 0,2; IC95% 0,1­0,4; p<0,001) e de permanecer muito tempo sem ver o profissional (aOR 0,2; IC95% 0,1­0,5; p<0,001). A aceitação da modalidade pelos profissionais foi de 75,4% e a percepção de sua conveniência (aOR 16,8; IC95% 2,6­108,4; p=0,003) e a de que a instituição possui condições favoráveis (aOR 7,7; IC95% 1,5­40,6; p=0,016) foram associadas com a maior probabilidade de aceitar a incorporação da modalidade em sua rotina. Conclusão: A governança deve investir em infraestrutura e apoio, protocolos seguros, literacia digital e treinamento de seus usuários e funcionários para a videoconsulta. (AU)

Older people's perceptions of teleconsultation via telephone during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study / Percepção de idosos sobre teleconsulta por telefone durante a pandemia de COVID-19: um estudo qualitativo

OBJECTIVES: In March/2020, our geriatric outpatient clinic implemented teleconsultation via telephone due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to understand older patients' perceptions of this experience through their narratives. METHODS: A qualitative study with Thematic Oral History and thematic analysis. We conducted open-ended interviews in which older patients narrated their perceptions of this experience. RESULTS: Twelve patients were interviewed from December/2021 to January/2022, and 2 themes emerged: older patients' experience of teleconsultation and possibilities and challenges of telemedicine. Some patients did not identify the call as a teleconsultation. Regarding possibilities, patients reported satisfaction and convenience in specific circumstances. As for challenges, patients reported concerns about the effectiveness of communication and need for physical examination. CONCLUSION: Teleconsultation is well accepted, as long as situations that require face-to-face interactions are considered. Considering person-centered medicine, listening to the narratives of older people contributes to a better structuring of telemedicine services in geriatrics

OBJETIVOS: Em março/2020, nosso ambulatório de geriatria iniciou a teleconsulta por telefone em virtude da pandemia de COVID-19. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi conhecer a percepção dessa experiência por esses pacientes, por meio de suas narrativas. METODOLOGIA: Pesquisa qualitativa com História Oral Temática e análise temática. Realizadas entrevistas abertas, nas quais os idosos narraram suas percepções sobre essa experiência. RESULTADOS: Doze pacientes foram entrevistados de dezembro/2021 a janeiro/2022 e dois temas emergiram: vivência ante a teleconsulta e possibilidades e desafios da telemedicina. Alguns não identificaram que se tratava de uma teleconsulta. Nas possibilidades, afirmaram satisfação e conveniência em circunstâncias específicas. Nos desafios, apontaram preocupações com eficácia de comunicação e com necessidade de exame físico. CONCLUSÃO: Existe uma boa recepção da teleconsulta, desde que respeitadas situações que demandem atendimento presencial. Considerando uma medicina centrada na pessoa, a escuta das narrativas dos idosos contribui para melhor estruturação de serviços de telemedicina em geriatria

Experiences and challenges in telemedicine of physicians from the National Capital Region during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study / The Health Sciences Journal

Introduction@#The COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift to delivering health services through telemedicine. This study recognized the perceptions, experiences, and challenges of physicians who practice synchronous teleconsultation in the Philippines.@*Methods@#A qualitative descriptive research design using purposive sampling, eight physicians from NCR were interviewed. Data collected were subjected to thematic analysis for common themes and integrated into an analytic narrative.@*Results@#Eight physicians were included as participants. Different measures taken to remedy the gap included upskilling of physicians, adjustment of clerical work, ensuring data privacy, and creating a conducive workplace. Remote consultations posed limitations on physical examination and emphasized the reliance on diagnostics. Digital platforms used depended on the physician’s preference, type of practice, and patient’s accessibility. This led to an increased dependency on good internet and network service connections to ensure smooth teleconsultations. A lack of respect for the physician’s personal boundaries and work-life balance was cited as a major challenge. @*Conclusion@#Telemedicine proved to be an option to provide healthcare despite its limitations, but the shift to its practice exposed many challenges as it is not a replacement for physical consultations.

Teleconsultation for pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic: experience of a university hospital in Brazil

Abstract Objective: Evaluate the impact of teleconsultation on glycemic control and prevention of acute complications related to diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents treated in a reference hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Method: Descriptive study of data from pediatric diabetic patients who received teleconsultation between April and September 2020. Results: During this period, 143 diabetic patients were evaluated, with a median of 3.4 teleconsultations per patient in the studied period, requiring adjustment of insulin doses in 84.6% of cases. The hospital admission rate was 8,4% due to diabetic decompensation. The metabolic control (HbA1c) became worse in 46% of the sample and improved in 37%. Conclusion: The teleconsultation promoted health care for patients with diabetes mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic but was not able to guarantee adequate glycemic control.

Low-Risk Antenatal Care Enhanced by Telemedicine: A Practical Guideline Model / Atenção ao pré-natal de baixo risco potencializada por telemedicina: Diretriz clínica prática

Abstract Objective To develop a protocol for hybrid low-risk prenatal care adapted to Brazilian guidelines, merging reduced face-to-face consultations and remote monitoring. Methods The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched on telemedicine and antenatal care perspectives and adaptation of the low-risk prenatal care protocols recommended by the Ministry of Health and by the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations. Results Five relevant articles and three manuals were included in the review, for presented criteria to develop this clinical guideline. We identified, in these studies, that the schedule of consultations is unevenly distributed among the gestational trimesters, and ranges from 7 to 14 appointments. In general, the authors propose one to two appointments in the first trimester, two to three appointments in the second trimester, and two to six appointments in the third trimester. Only three studies included puerperal evaluations. The routine exams recommended show minimal variations among authors. To date, there are no validated Brazilian protocols for prenatal care by telemedicine. The included studies showed that pregnant women were satisfied with this form of care, and the outcomes of interest, except for hypertensive diseases, were similar between the groups exposed to traditional and hybrid prenatal care. Conclusion The presented guideline comprises the Ministry of Health recommendations for low-risk prenatal care and reduces exposure to the hospital environment and care costs. A randomized clinical trial, to be developed by this group, will provide real-world data on safety, effectiveness, satisfaction, and costs.

Resumo Objetivo Desenvolver uma diretriz clínica híbrida para atendimento pré-natal de baixo risco, mesclando consultas presenciais e remotas por telemedicina, adapta às recomendações brasileiras. Métodos Revisão sistemática da literatura nas bases de dados PubMed, Embase e Cochrane e adaptação dos protocolos de atenção ao pré-natal de baixo risco preconizados pelo Ministério da Saúde e pela Federação Brasileira das Associações de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia. Resultados Cinco artigos relevantes e três manuais foram incluídos na revisão por preencherem critérios para o desenvolvimento desta diretriz clínica. Nos estudos incluídos, identificou-se que o cronograma de consultas se distribui de forma desigual entre os trimestres gestacionais, variando entre 07 e 14 encontros. De forma geral, os autores propõem uma a duas consultas no primeiro trimestre, duas a três consultas no segundo trimestre e duas a seis consultas no terceiro trimestre. Somente três estudos incluíram avaliações puerperais. A rotina de exames preconizada apresenta mínimas variações entre os autores. Até o momento, não existem protocolos brasileiros validados para atendimento pré-natal por telemedicina. Os estudos incluídos evidenciaram a satisfação das gestantes em relação a esta forma de atendimento, e os desfechos de interesse, excetuando doenças hipertensivas, foi semelhante entre os grupos expostos ao pré-natal tradicional e ao pré-natal híbrido. Conclusão A diretriz apresentada contempla as recomendações do Ministério da Saúde para atendimento pré-natal de gestantes de baixo risco, reduz a exposição ao ambiente hospitalar e os custos de atendimento. Seu emprego em um ensaio clínico randomizado, a ser desenvolvido por este grupo, proporcionará dados de mundo real, relativos à segurança, efetividade, satisfação e custos.

Impact of teleconsultation on visual and refractive outcomes in patients undergoing laser refractive surgery during COVID-19

Purpose: To assess the role of remote teleconsultation (TC) follow?up care following a successful and uneventful laser vision correction. Methods: The study is a retrospective, comparative analysis of patients undergoing laser vision correction at tertiary care eye hospital in Southern India. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group included patients operated on before the coronavirus disease (COVID?19) pandemic and were followed up with physical consultations during their follow?up visit (Group 1). The second group comprised patients operated on during the pandemic and had at least one remote TC during their post?operative follow?up (Group 2). Results: A total of 1088 eyes of 564 patients and 717 eyes of 372 patients were included in Group 1 and 2, respectively. The mean number of visits for the patients from Group 2 during the COVID period (2.56 +/? 0.74 days) was significantly lesser (P < 0.0001) than that of Group 1 in the pre?COVID period (3.53 +/? 1.07 days). Close to 90% of the eyes achieved an uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) of 20/20 in both groups (P = 0.925). 96.50% of the eyes in Group 1 and 98.18% of the eyes in Group 2 achieved UCVA 20/25 or better (P = 0.049). Eight eyes (0.73%) in Group 1 and one eye (0.14%) in Group 2 reported a loss of 2 or more lines. However, the results were not statistically significant (P = 0.156). None of the groups had any patients who had a sight?threatening complication. Conclusion: Remote TC following refractive surgery is safe and can be effectively integrated into routine refractive practice to reduce travel to the hospital for a physical consult

Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en la consulta ambulatoria endocrinológica y teleconsulta en un hospital Peruano

Introducción: La pandemia por COVID-19 afectó la continuidad de las consultas médicas presenciales, así se implementaron estrategias, como las teleconsultas, para cerrar brechas de atención. El objetivo del estudio fue describir el impacto de la pandemia en la consulta endocrinológica en el Hospital Nacional Alberto Sabogal Sologuren (Callao, Perú). Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de análisis de datos secundarios obtenidos del Sistema de Salud Inteligente del Seguro Social de Perú. Se analizó datos de las consultas ambulatorias entre mayo 2019 y noviembre 2021. Resultados: Debido a la pandemia, la proporción de consultas presenciales disminuyó de 100% (periodo prepandemia) a 29,4% (durante la pandemia), mientras que las teleconsultas predominaron tras su implementación. Mas del 68% de pacientes fueron mujeres, en las consultas presenciales la mediana de edad antes y durante la pandemia fue 59 y 56 años, respectivamente, mientras que en teleconsultas fue 58 años. La diabetes mellitus fue el principal motivo de consulta (entre 32,6% a 34,4% del total de consultas), seguido del hipotiroidismo y la enfermedad nodular tiroidea. Durante la pandemia, la proporción de consultas por hipotiroidismo fue mayor en teleconsultas vs consulta presencial (25,3% vs 18%). Conclusiones: Durante la pandemia, las teleconsultas predominaron sobre la consulta presencial. No hubo diferencias relevantes en la mediana de edad o sexo predominantes entre los pacientes antes o durante la pandemia. La diabetes mellitus fue el principal motivo de consulta en general y durante la pandemia las consultas por hipotiroidismo fueron mayor en teleconsulta.

ABSTRACS Background: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the continuity of face-to-face medical consultations, so strategies, such as teleconsultations, were implemented to close the gaps in care. The objective of this study was to describe the impact of the pandemic in the traditional endocrinology consultation at Hospital Nacional Alberto Sabogal Sologuren (Callao, Peru). Materials and methods: We carried out a descriptive study of analysis of secondary data, that was obtained from the Sistema de Salud Inteligente of the Social Security of Peru. Data from outpatient consultations between May 2019 and November 2021 were analyzed. Results: Due to the pandemic, the proportion of face-to-face consultations decreased from 100% (pre-pandemic period) to 29,4% (during the pandemic), while teleconsultations predominated after its implementation. More than 68% of patients were women, in face-to-face consultations the median age before and during the pandemic was 59 and 56 years, respectively, while in teleconsultations it was 58 years. Diabetes mellitus was the main reason for consultation (between 32,6% and 34,4% of all consultations), followed by hypothyroidism and nodular thyroid disease. During the pandemic, the proportion of consultations for hypothyroidism was higher in teleconsultations vs. face-to-face consultations (25,3% vs. 18%). Conclusions: During the pandemic, teleconsultations predominated over face-to-face consultation. There were no relevant differences in median age or predominant gender among patients before or during the pandemic. Diabetes mellitus was the main reason for consultation in general and during the pandemic consultations for hypothyroidism were higher in teleconsultation.

Use of Telemedicine in Evaluation of Pediatric Surgical Patients in COVID-19 Time

Objective?The word “telemedicine” literally translates to “healing at a distance.” In the current scenario of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and shut outpatient department, the patients are facing difficulty in consultation. This article evaluated the use of telemedicine in the management of pediatric surgical patients. Materials and Methods?In this observational cohort study, from April 2020 to August 2020, all patients who took advice on phone/WhatsApp were assessed for addressing their complaints. The data was collected and analyzed. Result?A total of 307 patients were provided consultation via telecommunication. The male to female ratio was 2.3:1. Fifty-six (18.2%) patients called on an emergency basis, while the remaining 251 (81.8%) patients called for nonemergency or routine problems. Of these, attendants of 25 (8.14%) patients were not able to state the situation adequately. They were called to the department. Of these, 11 (3.5% of total) patients were admitted. One-hundred and eighty-three (59.6%) patients were in the department's follow-up, while the remaining 124 (40.4%) were new patients. The attendants of 296 (96.4%) patients were satisfied by using this modality of consultation. Conclusion?In the current scenario, telecommunication may help us to avoid unnecessary travel to the hospital. It may be helpful to deal with minor clinical complaints and evaluating for an emergency.

Telemedicine in Paediatric Subspecialty : A Low Cost Model for Developing Countries during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background : Telemedicine is the delivery of Health Care Services using information and communication technologies. Most models of Telemedicine in developed countries involve high-cost infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic imposed lockdowns and travel restrictions have highlighted the importance and the necessity of an economically viable model of telemedicine for resource-poor countries like India. Methods : We conducted a prospective study to assess the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of low-cost model of Telemedicine services for regular follow-up as well as for triaging. A combination of WhatsApp/email using smartphones and Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system was used to provide Telemedicine services. At the end of the e-consult, the patient/ parents were asked to rate their experience on a scale of 0 to 10. Results : A total of 155 children and 865 consults were included. The mean age of the children was 8.5 years. Forty-four consultations were given to 12 (7.7%) International patients. Thirty-eight (24.5%) patients were seen for the first time via Teleconsultation and the remaining 117 (75.5%) were follow-up patients. The most common diagnosis was Nephrotic Syndrome (51.6%) followed by Chronic Kidney Disease (21.9%), Urinary Tract Infection (10.3%), Kidney-transplant follow-up (6.4%), Acute Glomerulonephritis (3.8%), and Acute Kidney Injury (2.6%). Twenty-three patients were advised admission after the Teleconsultation and the remaining 122 children were advised follow-up e-consults. The mean satisfaction score reported for e-consults was 9.4. Conclusion : Our low-cost Telemedicine model offered a viable modality for delivery of Paediatric Nephrology Services during lockdown period and can be replicated by pediatricians practicing other subspecialties as well

Outcomes of Teleconsultation Services and Patient Satisfaction among Pregnant Women Delivering at a Tertiary Care Center in South India during Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has disrupted the antenatal care in low? and middle?income countries such as India. Telemedicine was introduced for the first time in India for continuing antenatal care. Hence, a questionnaire?based descriptive cross?sectional study is done to assess the outcomes of teleconsultation services, factors influencing it, and patient’s perceived satisfaction. Three hundred and fifty?five women who delivered the following teleconsultation from July 2020 to October 2020 were included in the study. Thirty?two percent were high?risk pregnancies and 15% of the babies required neonatal intensive care unit admission. Ninety?eight percent could convey their health concerns, 18% had a referral to other departments, and 25% had visited casualty. Sixty?three percent procured medicine through e?prescription. Seventy?six percent were happy with teleconsultation overcrowded clinic, 82% were happy about saving travel expenditure, whereas overall satisfaction was 50%. Fourteen percent did not have access to smartphone and 9% did not receive the call at scheduled time. Telemedicine has a vital role in managing pregnancy concerns during this pandemic.

Telemedicina para seguimiento de pacientes renales trasplantados durante la pandemia por COVID-19

Contexto: la pandemia por COVID-19 generó la reestructuración de los servicios de salud en el mundo. La teleconsulta ofrece el acceso a la atención en salud a distancia como estrategia de mitigación a la propagación del virus y como una forma flexible de telemedicina. Objetivo: describir los resultados de atención en salud por modalidad de teleconsulta en pacientes trasplantados durante el inicio de la pandemia por COVID-19. Metodología: estudio descriptivo de corte transversal que describe la experiencia del uso de la teleconsulta en el inicio de la pandemia por COVID-19 en un centro de trasplante de órganos en Colombia. La información fue obtenida mediante la recolección directa de la atención en el mes de abril de 2020 y a través del envío de un cuestionario electrónico, estructurado para los pacientes atendidos por teleconsulta. Resultados: un total de 1139 pacientes con trasplante renal fueron valorados en la modalidad de teleconsulta. Alrededor del 50 % de los pacientes atendidos vivían fuera de áreas metropolitanas (n = 564) y un total de 292 (de 800 contactados) respondieron la encuesta enviada con una media de edad de 48 años. Los pacientes presentaron altos porcentajes de satisfacción con el modelo de teleconsulta (n = 278, lo que equivale al 94 %). Se presentaron dos casos sospechosos de COVID-19, los cuales fueron negativos al realizar la prueba de PCR-RT. Conclusiones: la teleconsulta es una herramienta útil en la mitigación de la emergencia sanitaria, con un alto potencial que genera mayor acceso y oportunidad de atención en salud, presentando altos índices de aceptación.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic led to the restructuring of health services around the world. Teleconsultation offers access to remote health care and a mitigation strategy. Purpose: Describe the results of a teleconsultation program in a transplant center at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: Descriptive cross-sectional study describing the experience of the use of teleconsultation during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic at an organ transplant center in Colombia. The information was obtained by directly collecting the total number of patients treated during April 2020 and by sending a structured electronic questionnaire to the patients involved in the care. Results: A total of 1139 renal transplant patients were assessed by teleconsultation. The geographical distribution of patients in metropolitan areas and outside the metropolitan area were similar (n=575 and n=564, respectively). Of the total, 292 patients responded to the survey sent with an average age of 48 years. The patients had high satisfaction with the teleconsultation model (n=278, 94%). There were 2 suspected cases of COVID-19, which were negative when performing the PCR-RT test. Conclusions: Teleconsultation is a useful tool in the mitigation of the health emergency, with a high potential, which generates greater access and health care opportunity, presenting high acceptance rates.

Trends in teleconsultations for uveitis during the COVID-19 lockdown

Purpose: To study the use of teleophthalmology as a tool to manage patients with uveitis and to describe the experience of teleconsultation for uveitis at a tertiary eye care hospital in India during the two waves of the COVID?19 pandemic. Methods: A prospective observational case series of uveitis patients seeking teleconsultations during the first (March 25–May 2020) and second lockdown (April 27 to June 21, 2021) in a tertiary eye care center were analyzed. Results: There were 79 teleconsultations in the first and 89 teleconsultations in the second lockdown. A majority of the patients presented in the age group of 41– 60 years in both the lockdowns. There were both new or primary consultations and follow?up patients (6% vs. 94%) in the first lockdown, and similarly in the second lockdown (8% new vs. 92% follow?up). The majority of patients resided in Bengaluru city (78% in the first and 76% in the second lockdown). After evaluation through video consultation, only 15% required a hospital referral in the first lockdown, whereas in the second lockdown, 21.3% were referred to the hospital. During the second lockdown, 20% presented with COVID?19 infection?related ailments. Conclusion: Based on our preliminary experience using a customized smartphone?based application for teleconsultation, we found it to be an alternative option to provide continuation of ophthalmic care to uveitis patients. Given the current COVID?19 situation, it can help avoid physical visits of uveitis patients to the hospital

Brechas en telemedicina: caracterización de consultas ambulatorias a teledermatología en Chile entre 2018-2020 / Gaps in telemedicine: characterization of ambulatory teledermatology consultations in Chile, between 2018 and 2020

Introducción: La teledermatología (TD) se ha desarrollado de manera importante en los últimos años. Además de mejorar el acceso de la población a consultas médicas, permite el diagnóstico precoz de lesiones complejas. En Chile, la TD forma parte de la plataforma Hospital Digital del Ministerio de Salud desde el 2018, en modalidad asincrónica. El objetivo de este estudio es la caracterización epidemiológica de las consultas ambulatorias a TD en Chile entre los años 2018-2020. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. Se analizaron las consultas ambulatorias a TD y a dermatología en el período 2018-2020, a partir de los datos del Departamento de Estadísticas e Información de Salud, y los datos de población total a partir del Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas, por lo que no se requirió comité de ética. Resultados: Del total de teleconsultas realizadas entre 2018-2020, un 14,2% correspondió a TD. De ellas, el 86,1% corresponden a consultas nuevas, y el 13,9% a controles. Del total de pacientes, el 63,0% fueron mujeres, mientras que el 78,9% fueron mayores de 15 años. Se realizaron 20,35 consultas a TD por cada 10.000 habitantes a nivel nacional, y 17,21 consultas dermatológicas por cada consulta a TD. Discusión: La TD es una de las principales aplicaciones de la telemedicina en Chile. La variación entre las regiones con respecto al número de consultas a TD podría deberse a factores que requieren mayor estudio. Es probable que la TD mantenga un rol creciente debido al desarrollo tecnológico y los beneficios demostrados de esta herramienta.

Introduction: Teledermatology (TD) has greatly developed in recent years. Besides improving access to medical consultations, it also allows the early diagnosis of complex lesions. In Chile, TD forms part of the Digital Hospital platform of the Ministry of Health since 2018, in a store-and-forward form. The objective of this study is to characterize ambulatory consultations with TD in Chile between 2018 and 2020. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was performed. Ambulatory consultations with TD and dermatology between 2018-2020 were analyzed from data obtained from the Department of Statistics and Health Information, and population data were obtained from the Statistics National Institute, which did not require ethical approval. Results: Of the total teleconsultations made in the 2018-2020 period, 14.2% belonged to TD. From that, 86.1% were new consultations, and 13.9% were controls. Women represented 63.0% of the patients, while 78.9% were older than 15 years old. For every 10,000 inhabitants, 20.35 total consultations were made with TD nationwide, and 17.21 dermatological consultations were made for each consultation with TD. Discussion: TD is one of the main applications of telemedicine in Chile. The variation in the number of consultations with TD between regions could be caused by factors that require further study. It is likely that TD will keep a growing role due to technological development and benefits shown by this tool.

Teledentistry in the Malaysian Context: Are We There Yet?

ABSTRACT@#Teledentistry has been proven to have the potential in addressing the gap in accessing oral health care worldwide. Nevertheless, more information is needed to support evidence-based teledentistry practice in Malaysia. The article aims to review teledentistry in view of implementing it to be a common practice in Malaysia. The authors describe teledentistry application worldwide, as well as its uses in the field of service and education. The article summarises the needs of teledentistry in South East Asia, as well as the ethical perspectives and legal practices. In addition, the article also reviews the opportunities arising from practicing teledentistry, including during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Following review, teledentistry seems to be a promising path as it could offer solutions to shortages in the workforce, high demand for treatment needs and unequal service distribution due to lack of accessibility in rural areas in Malaysia. Furthermore, teledentistry can extend care to underserved patients and provide opportunities to supplement teaching in dental education. The authors provide recommendations to overcome challenges to ensure a sustainable teledentistry. Incorporating teledentistry into practice in Malaysia is achievable but proper guidelines are required.

Teleconsulta en épocas de pandemia. Experiencia de los pediatras del desarrollo del Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan" / Teleconsultation during a pandemic. Experience of developmental pediatricians at Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan"

La teleconsulta es uno de los componentes de la telemedicina. Los pediatras del desarrollo realizan evaluaciones y seguimiento de niños y niñas con esafíos en su desarrollo. Durante la pandemia, debido a las restricciones de movilidad y traslado y la importancia de la continuidad de la atención, comenzaron a trabajar de manera remota realizando consultas virtuales. El objetivo del trabajo fue describir la implementación de la atención virtual, las características de los pacientes atendidos y la percepción de sus familias. Se programaron 122 teleconsultas. La media de edad de los pacientes fue de 40 ± 13 meses. Los motivos de consulta más frecuentes fueron ausencia y retraso lenguaje y dificultades conductuales. Si bien un 16 % de las familias encontró alguna dificultad, todas se mostraron agradecidas con las consultas. La atención virtual debe considerarse como un complemento de la presencialidad, que disminuye los costos y los tiempos de traslado y acerca a los pediatras del desarrollo a lugares remotos.

Teleconsultation is one of the components of telemedicine. Developmental pediatricians provide assessments and follow-up to children with developmental challenges. During the pandemic, due to movement and travel restrictions and the importance of continued care, pediatricians started working remotely with virtual consultations. The objective of this study was to describe the implementation of virtual care, the characteristics of patients seen, and their families' perception. A total of 122 teleconsultations were scheduled. Patients' mean age was 40 ± 13 months. The most common reasons for consultation were absence of and delay in language and behavioral difficulties. Although 16 % of families described some obstacles, all were grateful for the consultations. Virtual health care should be regarded as a complement to in-person care, alongside reductions in costs and travel time and the possibility of bringing developmental pediatricians to remote locations