A Parkinson's disease tele-education program for health care providers in Cameroon

Abstract

Background: In Sub-Saharan countries, most patients with Parkinson's disease are underdiagnosed and untreated, with a marked shortage of qualified personnel.

Objectives: To develop a tele-education Parkison's disease program for health providers in Douala (Cameroon).

Methods: Feasibility, satisfaction, pre-post course medical knowledge improvement and patients' access were analyzed.

Results: Twenty lectures over the course of a year which connected participants with movement disorder experts using live, synchronous video conferences, and teaching materials were given. Thirty-three health professionals (52.4% women) including 16 doctors, and 17 allied health professionals and 18 speakers participated. Videoconferences were successfully completed in 80%, participation ranged from 20% to 70%, and satisfaction was at least above average in 70% of the participants. Whereas medical knowledge was dramatically improved, post-course patient access was not changed.

Conclusion: Tele-education for movement disorders in low-income countries is feasible. However, better access and patient care should be ensured as the final outcome for tele-health education. A sustainability plan is crucial to continue with this important need.

Keywords: Parkinson's disease; Tele-education; Telemedicine.