The Importance of Telemedical Consultations for Increasing the Efficiency of Geriatric Services in the Voronezh Region

Abstract

Relevance. The geriatric service at the Russian Gerontology Research and Clinical Centre of Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University places great emphasis on telehealth consultations conducted by their specialists, as it is a crucial aspect of maintaining active longevity.

Aim. In this paper, we aim to analyze the structure of telehealth consultations conducted in geriatrics.

Materials and methods. The annual reports of the Chief Geriatrician of the Voronezh region.

Results. Throughout 2020 and 2021, the National Medical Research Center for Geriatrics in the Voronezh region held 14 and 30 telehealth consultations, respectively, with experts. In 2022, the number of telehealth consultations reached 48, the Voronezh region took 7th place among the regions of the Russian Federation. Over the three quarters of 2023, 56 telehealth consultations were carried out in the Voronezh region. Telehealth consultations are carried out according to the schedule approved by the Department of Health of the Voronezh Region. Geriatricians in Voronezh and the Voronezh region take an active part in preparing patients and providing the required documents. Experts of the Russian Gerontology Research and Clinical Centre of Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University provide consultation protocols with detailed recommendations for the examination and treatment of older patients. Analysis of the performed telehealth consultations showed that patients suffering from frailty of mild and moderate severity, suffering from cardiovascular and endocrine diseases predominate. Improving the effectiveness of treatment for these patients will improve the autonomy of these patients and, therefore, improve their quality of life.

Conclusions. Use of the regional segment of the Unified State Health Information System when conducting telehealth consultations in geriatrics (profile “Doctor - Doctor”) allows to increase the effectiveness of older patients treatment.