77 Routine outpatients visits during SARS-CoV2 global pandemic

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Telemedicine

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted routine outpatient visits, posing risks to patients with chronic conditions.
• Telemedicine emerged as a critical tool to maintain healthcare access during lockdowns.
• Arterial hypertension management is crucial, especially during public health crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the experience and outcomes of telemedicine consultations for patients with arterial hypertension during the COVID-19 lockdown.
• To identify cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular events in this patient cohort.
• To assess the impact of disrupted routine care on chronic disease management.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 121 adult patients with arterial hypertension.
• Phone-based consultations were conducted by residents to assess patient health status and events.
• Data collected included blood pressure, new symptoms, cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular events, and lifestyle changes.

Main Results:

• 26% of patients experienced cardiovascular symptoms or events, including hypertensive peaks, angina, palpitations, and new-onset atrial fibrillation.
• 14% experienced non-cardiovascular symptoms, with severe anxiety and panic attacks reported in some.
• Lifestyle changes, including weight gain, were common during the lockdown period.

Conclusions:

• Telemedicine proved essential in monitoring patients with arterial hypertension during the COVID-19 lockdown.
• Despite telemedicine use, the disruption of routine visits poses a risk for chronic disease management.
• Continued telemedicine integration is vital to mitigate risks associated with delayed or missed cardiovascular care.