PPSUS: Use of Technology of Information in Primary Care Through the Virtual Mobile Clinic System in the State of Amazonas

Abstract

The Amazon is a large state, which hinders access to healthcare for residents of the most remote areas. The project evaluated the use of Information and Communication Technologies in primary care, through the virtual clinic system mobile and a mobile communication device (tablet). The project was developed over 24 months. In the first 12 months the virtual clinic was developed, technical teams were capacitated and participation of municipalities approved. In all, 30 municipalities where selected with 15 receiving the tablet and 15 only having access to the virtual clinic. Over the following 12 months the teleconsultation and tele-education activities were monitoring, and project evaluation undertaken. Between June 2015 and July 2016 there were 386 teleconsultation, of which 250 (64.8%) came from the participating municipalities of the PPSUS project using the tablet, 21 (5.4%) from those without tablet and 115 (29.8%) were from municipalities not participating in the project. The advantages of use of both the mobile device and the virtual clinic were verified through the analysis of the evaluation forms and the data of Telehealth Platform. The need for innovation in health practices, especially with regard to care in the State of Amazonas was also verified. There is a strong need to institutionalise the use of Telehealth Platform, and improve available technology with updated tools and good Internet connection. The project was successful in developing the project and collecting data, providing evidence of the need to improve the health services offered to the population and the importance of general medical monitoring as a precursor of teleconsultation by medical experts in order to minimise social and financial impacts, avoid unnecessary travel and procedures.