Résumé
Background: Telemedicine (TM) has grown substantially worldwide during COVID-19 pandemic, with numerous advantages in healthcare. Specific governmental recommendations and society guidelines are currently stablished to direct a safe and efficient use of TM. The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics of TM practices among Brazilian allergists/immunologists (A/I) doctors and to evaluate their knowledge on the regulatory recommendations. Method(s): An electronic, self-reported survey (27 questions regarding demographic data, TM practices and knowledge about regulatory recommendations) was e-mailed once a week between August and October/2021 to 2600 Brazilian A/I doctors. Result(s): 205 (7.9%) participants fulfill the forms. One form was excluded due to be duplicate. 143/204 (70.2%) are currently using TM in their daily practice, and 184 (89.9%) had never used it before COVID-19 pandemic. 192 A/I doctors (93.8%) used TM for follow-up appointments, 186 (91%) to check complementary tests, and 136 (66.7%) used it in first consultations. 143 A/I doctors (70.2%) felt safe on their diagnostic through TM, and 7 (3.5%) answered that they could not find a correct diagnostic using TM. The main benefits of TM reported were: greater accessibility, mainly in more distant areas 159 (77.6%), reduced traveling costs 158 (77.1%) and safety regarding COVID-19 transmission 145 (71.2%). On the other hand, some disadvantages of TM were listed by participants: absence of physical examination 183 (89.7%), weakened patient-physician relationship 59 (28.8%) and internet issues 45 (22%). Regarding legal/ ethic field, 105 (51.4%) of the specialists applied the consent terms and 34 (16.7%) recorded the teleconsultation, both required steps in a TM appointment, according to local regulatory recommendations. Additionally, inappropriate online platforms for TM, such as social media apps and non-specific online meeting programs, were reported to be used by 131 (64.1%) of participants. Eighty (40%) did not read the official statements and recommendations which regulate TM practice in Brazil. Conclusion(s): An increasing use of TM in Brazil was observed, mainly influenced by COVID-19 pandemic. Its benefits are clear;however, it is primordial to ensure all the correct and recommended practices are being followed when using this modality of healthcare service, in order to avoid ethical, legal and medical issues that may arise.
Résumé
The authors apologize for a typing error that occurred in the September 2020 article that changes the meaning of a sentence. Correction: Page 921, right column, 2nd paragraph, line 8, change «match» to «watch» so it reads, «Primary care providers should watch for frailty development due to physical inactivity during the COVID-19 pandemic (47).» In addition, the author listed as “C. Won Won” wishes to be known as “C.W. Won.” © 2020, The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging.