Abstract: FR-PO027
Development, Implementation, and Outcome of Telemedicine to Improve Access to Renal Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI)
Session Information
- AI, Digital Health, Data Science - II
November 03, 2023 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Pennsylvania Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Augmented Intelligence, Digital Health, and Data Science
- 300 Augmented Intelligence, Digital Health, and Data Science
Author
- Altillero, Melchor Adolacion, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Quezon City, National Capital Region, Philippines
Background
With health care facilities becoming high risk places during the COVID pandemic, NKTI has developed adjustments in the provision of healthcare for out-patient consultation during the pandemic. This study aims to describe the development, implementation and outcome of telemedicine among service renal patients of Adult Nephrology Department in NKTI Out-Patient Service (OPS).
Methods
A hybrid model of telemedicine and ambulatory visits was utilizing synchronous video consults integrated with electronic medical records (EMR). Data were collected from the NKTI-OPS and Adult Nephro System including e-survey forms to assess patient satisfaction.
Results
Comparing with pre-pandemic, a 29% decrease in the mean service renal patient consultation/month was noted, with 28% and 50% reduction in GN and KT respectively. During the 4-month dry run of the program, the GN telemedicine utilization was only 4% while 27% for KT. With the full operation by October 2020, an increase of telemedicine usage was observed for both GN and KT consults with a high percentage among KT 68% vs 34% in GN patients. Majority of patients who utilized telemedicine were within 30-40 age group with comparable demographics between sex. Telemedicine was used by patients in almost all regions in the Philippines. Over-all patient satisfaction rate was 95.2%.
Conclusion
Delivering telehealth consultation to renal patients in our Institute during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that it is feasible and well accepted alternative in augmenting patient care.