Ongoing effects of eConsultation in nephrology on hospital referral rates: An observational study. (July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boom, Victor EA; van der Kamp, Laura T; van Zuilen, Arjan D; De Ranitz, Wendela L; Bos, Willem Jan; Jellema, Wilbert T; Mui, Kwok Wai; Later, Alexander F; Prinssen, Monique; Kaasjager, Karin
• Is Part Of: Journal of telemedicine and telecare. Volume 28:Number 6(2022)
• Page Start: 423
• Page End: 428
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Subjects: eConsultation -- telemedicine -- referral to specialist -- access to care -- secondary care -- coordination of care -- communication -- delivery of health care -- remote consultation -- transmural care -- telehealth -- nephrology; Telecommunication in medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1177/1357633X20942037
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1357-633X

Abstract

Introduction: eConsultation in nephrology is an innovative way for general practitioners (GPs) to consult a nephrologist. Studies have shown that questions from GPs can be answered and intended referrals can be avoided by eConsultation. However, follow-up data are lacking. The primary aim of this study was therefore to assess whether patients for whom a referral to the outpatient clinic of a medical specialist was avoided in the short term were not then referred for the same problem within one year after the eConsultation. Methods: All eConsultations sent between June 2017 and April 2018 to seven nephrologists in three different hospitals in The Netherlands were included. Exclusion criteria were duplications and missing data on follow-up. Data were obtained from the eConsultation application forms and from GP medical records. Results: A total of 173 eConsultations were included. Of the 32 patients for whom a referral was initially prevented, 91% (95% confidence interval 75–98) had not been referred to a specialist for the same problem within one year after the eConsultation. Discussion: eConsultation in the field of nephrology can prevent referrals in the long term. It can therefore contribute to a more modern and efficient health-care system in which chronic care is provided by GPs in close proximity to patients, while specialist support is easily available and accessible through eConsultation when necessary.