Managing patients using telerheumatology: Lessons from a pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Digital Health
• Healthcare Innovation

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted traditional rheumatology care delivery.
• Limited face-to-face consultations necessitated alternative healthcare models.
• Telerheumatology, leveraging existing evidence, emerged as a key solution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence supporting telerheumatology adoption before and during the pandemic.
• To outline innovative telerheumatology approaches in rheumatology.
• To discuss the advantages, limitations, and regulatory aspects of telerheumatology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of telerheumatology evidence.
• Analysis of innovative telerheumatology applications in rheumatology.
• Discussion of implementation, access, equity, and sustainability challenges.

Main Results:

• Telerheumatology adoption surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Numerous innovative approaches have been implemented to support rheumatology patients.
• Key challenges include regulatory hurdles, equity of access, and long-term sustainability.

Conclusions:

• Telerheumatology offers significant potential for rheumatology care post-pandemic.
• Addressing challenges in implementation, access, and regulation is crucial for successful integration.
• The focus should be on 'how' to best embrace telerheumatology technology in rheumatology practice.