Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Medical Management and on Healthcare Delivery of Immune-Mediated Rheumatic and...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology and Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered the management landscape for patients with immune-mediated rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (imRMDs).
• This systematic review focused on the initial pandemic period (February-July 2020) to assess impacts on drug availability, therapy adherence, medication adjustments, and healthcare delivery for imRMD patients.

Approach:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases.
• Studies included adult patients with imRMDs, excluding systematic reviews, case reports, and articles solely on SARS-CoV-2 outcomes.
• Data from 34 studies involving 182,746 patients and 2018 rheumatologists were analyzed.

Key Points:

• Drug non-availability (e.g., hydroxychloroquine, tocilizumab) affected 16-69% of patients.
• Medication non-adherence ranged from 4-46%, and up to 33% of patients experienced medication changes.
• Physical consultations and lab testing decreased, while remote consultations, particularly telemedicine, surged by up to 80%.

Conclusions:

• The early COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted imRMD management, affecting drug access, adherence, and treatment plans.
• The widespread adoption of remote and telehealth consultations represents a significant shift in healthcare delivery.
• Integrating these digital health solutions into routine practice is crucial for pandemic preparedness and future healthcare resilience.