Evaluation of the Efficiency of Telemedicine in the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases in Primary Healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Medico-Economic Study in Cameroon

Abstract

Objective: To assess the efficiency of tele-expertise (tele-ECG) for patients and for health facilities in managing patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in primary health care in Cameroon.

Method: This study was a medico-economic study combining two approaches: cost minimization and cost-effectiveness analysis. It was conducted alongside the previous published controlled multicenter study carried out in Cameroon's two health facilities where tele-ECG has been implemented (intervention centres) and two other where telemedicine has been not implemented (control centres).

Results: The average total cost for patients was 9 286 F CFA (US$: 16) in the intervention centres compared to 28 357 F CFA (US$: 49) in the control centres (p <0.01). The calculated ICER favouring tele-ECG was 25 459.6 F CFA (US$: 44).

Discussion: Telemedicine is efficient for managing patients with CVDs in primary health care in Cameroon. It enables health facilities in remote areas to offer new healthcare services at a lower cost and improve patients' financial access to healthcare.

Keywords: Cameroon; Cardiovascular Diseases; Developing Countries; Efficiency; Low-middle Income Countries; Sub-saharan Africa; Telemedicine.