Impact of Telemedicine, Telehealth and Virtual Online Consulting in the Nephrology Paradigm in South Africa

Abstract

The study is aimed at assessing the impact of telemedicine and telehealth, particularly the use of virtual consults with dialysis patients. The uniqueness of this study is that it allows clinicians the opportunity to provide nephrology care to patients at distant areas from various sites nationwide and globally. This research is not intended to set out the ideal or best practices for the chronic kidney disease (CKD) setting or to recommend the code of conduct to adhere to, but rather to contribute towards the current literature and adapting behaviors that facilitate excellent health outcomes. In this way, the research project seeks to care for the health profession in South Africa through adopting and incorporating new innovations and technologies into everyday processes and practices. Chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis require frequent and regular attention from the clinician; however, nephrologists are limited globally; particularly in South Africa. Thus, clinicians find it difficult to attend to multiple dialysis units simultaneously. The use of telenephrology will transform the dynamics of renal care globally as this allows for one doctor to attend to multiple units and liaise with peers. This study assesses the impact of telenephrology, via multifaceted and innovative modalities that will revolutionize the care and outcome of CKD and kidney replacement therapy (KRT). The study seeks to create awareness on the importance of telenephrology in the treatment of kidney disease. In order to achieve the main objective. The study will evaluate clinicians and patients’ perception to use and reuse the technology and its’ influences on patient confidence in treatment.