DIGITAL HEALTH IN CHRONIC PATIENT MANAGEMENT DURING THE PANDEMIC: HEALTH CARE TEAM’S PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Objective: To know the perceptions of the primary care health team about the use of digital health in the control of chronic patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Method: Integrative review based on Crossetti’s methodology, the bibliographic search was carried out in 2022 in the Virtual Health Library, considering the terms “telehealth”, “perception”, “health care provider”, “primary health care” and “chronic disease” using the Booleans AND and OR, in the period 2017 to 2022. Results: 10 studies published between 2020 and 2022 met the inclusion criteria. Two categories related to benefits and barriers were identified. The health care team used digital health and this modality proved to be beneficial because it provided great comfort, facilitated decision-making, allowed constant communication and provided therapeutic support. Barriers were also perceived, highlighting access to technology and limited physical contact. Conclusions: Multiple benefits and care opportunities are perceived, not only for patients with chronic diseases, but also for different care situations. Public health policies and strategies should consider the permanent training of human resources and technological implementation to include this modality of care in the health care of the population. Academic institutions should also consider the development of technological skills among future health professionals.