Telemedicine assistance for cardiac patients in egypt during covid-19 pandemic

Abstract EN

Introduction; during the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) period, most of the countries were locked down and most of the hospitals established for COVID-19 patients only.

The idea of telemedicine and online clinic was necessary and a good solution for patients who cannot reach or afraid from contacting corona virus carriers at cardiology clinics or hospitals.

Aim of work; this study was conducted to assess the value of telemedicine in cardiac patients care and ease managing their chronic illness during COVID-19.

Subject and Methods; A cross sectional study during the course of one month of tele monitoring (from 5 July to 4 August), we received 2003 alerts (phone calls and messages).

We used to communicate with patients on time or shortly within 24 hours according to their complaints.

Results; As regard onset of complaint, 14.4% were acute onset and 85.6% were gradual onset.

Recommendation for admission for only 15.1% and 84.9% of patients advised to continue treatment at home with some changes in doses.

Conclusion ;Telemedicine had a lot of economic and social benefits and it is a good solution especially in certain circumstances like the COVID-19 outbreak.

It allows better follow-up, stimulation of self-management of the illness, improvement of quality of life, reduction of rehospitalization costs, and faster treatment in cardiac emergencies.