#3865 TELEMEDICINE IN NEPHROLOGY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence has been increasing estimates show it will be the fifth leading cause of lost life years worldwide by 2040. CKD patients should evaluated Nephrology even in early stages disease, but substantially outnumber nephrologists. Telemedicine consists delivery health-care services information from distant locations its utility largely demonstrated patients. In our centre, teleconsultation began being used to support requests family doctors regarding that are at point stable an stage their disease. Method Since January 2020 December 2022, 456 were using teleconsultation. Their demographical characteristics savings on dislocation cost, based price per kilometre, analysed. addition, a questionnaire about use telenephrology was shared through general practice centres. Results From patients, 43% male 57% female, with average age 78 years. One out five dependent for daily activities. On average, lived within 22kms hospital, maximal distance 540kms. Based this data we estimate 6660 euros costs alone. A total 47 medicine answered survey, which 21% male, 40 years, 23% had under 5 experience, 26% between 10 11 15 remaining over 16 experience. Around 70% never teleconsultation, majority due lack knowledge possibility. group it, 77% satisfied patient's orientation 85% would consider again. Most practitioners (62%) referenced 2 times. fast answer request most frequently pointed advantage time patient considered appropriate. Conclusion data, conclude is not well known among Portugal, yet potential reduce nephrologists build bridges different areas specialisation. It also allow cost reduction, matter more pressing each day, increase comfort reducing unnecessary hospital visits.