Tele-nephrology in practice: Economic impact and primary care perspectives

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Health Services Research
• Digital Health

Background:

• Telemedicine, specifically virtual consultations (VCs), is increasingly adopted in nephrology.
• While VCs show non-inferiority and acceptance, their cost-effectiveness and general practitioner (GP) perspectives require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of VCs in a nephrology setting.
• To assess the perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) on the use and satisfaction with VCs.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study analyzed 456 patients referred for VCs between January 2020 and December 2022.
• Economic savings were estimated based on nephrologist time, patient transport, and workdays lost.
• A survey assessed GPs' awareness, usage, and satisfaction with VCs.

Main Results:

• VCs generated estimated total savings of €16,697.89 (€36.62 per consult), with significant cost reduction in nephrologist time.
• Of 47 surveyed GPs, 28% had used VCs, with 77% reporting satisfaction; prescription guidance was a key strength.
• Lack of awareness was identified as the primary barrier for GP adoption of VCs.

Conclusions:

• VCs in nephrology offer a cost-effective solution, reducing travel burden and demonstrating GP acceptance.
• Improved awareness and integration of VCs into primary care workflows are crucial for wider adoption.
• Future multicenter studies should investigate clinical outcomes and patient/nephrologist perspectives.