Objective
To evaluate the effect of using asynchronous geriatric consultations to reduce polypharmacy and unscheduled consultations in older persons in Chile.
Methods
An asynchronous geriatric teleconsultation was introduced that enabled primary care teams to present clinical cases to a multidisciplinary geriatrics team, resulting in changes in chronic disease management and the optimization of pharmacological treatment. A total of 462 consultations between May 2022 and January 2024 were randomly analyzed. Descriptive analyses and hypothesis testing were used before and after the intervention, with follow-up at six months. The number of medications, potentially inappropriate medications, and unscheduled consultations were measured as outcome variables.
Results
The use of geriatric teleconsultations was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the total number of medications prescribed, potentially inappropriate medications, and the frequency of unscheduled consultations among older persons.
Conclusions
Telegeriatrics allows for multidisciplinary review of therapeutic regimens and has demonstrated a relevant clinical impact by suspending the prescription of pharmaceuticals and reducing unscheduled visits. It is a safe and effective tool for improving care and reducing health inequities in primary care.