Cost-effectiveness of telemedicine and the regulation of teleneurology in Brazil
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Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the interest and practice of telemedicine among Brazilian neurologists. Before the pandemic, only 18.5% used it, but this number rose to 56.2% after its onset. Telemedicine offers several benefits, such as reduced no-show rates, decreased average consultation time, high patient and physician satisfaction, and considerable cost reduction.
Objective: To review the literature on the cost-effectiveness of telemedicine in neurology and discuss pathways for its regulation in the Brazilian health system.
Method: This systematic review followed a rigorous methodological process. Databases such as PubMed, Medline (BVS), and Science Direct were used. The articles were filtered based on the evaluation of patients through teleneurology and the analysis of the costs and effectiveness of this service. Only original studies and clinical trials in English or Spanish were included, while duplicate and review articles were excluded.
Result: A total of 29 articles focused on the topic were included in this review.
Conclusion: Telemedicine in neurology is cost-effective and offers several advantages, such as cost reduction, improved patient quality of life, and increased access to specialists, and holds promise for improving care in rural and remote areas. However, adequate regulation, standardization of clinical and technical protocols, and financial sustainability of programs are essential for its successful implementation. Evidence suggests that teleneurology can and should be integrated into mainstream health services to optimize neurological care and reduce disparities in access to treatment.
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