A NEW study from the Netherlands shows that patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) supported by asynchronous telemedicine significantly reduces healthcare visits for patients with spondyloarthritis, cutting costs without compromising health outcomes. The TeleSpA study, a pragmatic randomised controlled trial, compared the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of PIFU and telemedicine with traditional care for patients with stable spondyloarthritis.
Conducted across multiple centres, the trial enrolled 200 patients with stable disease, who were randomly assigned to either the PIFU and asynchronous telemedicine group or the usual care group. Patients in both groups attended an initial consultation and a follow-up after one year, with PIFU patients receiving additional remote monitoring at six months. Usual care patients were monitored according to the treating rheumatologist’s discretion.
Results showed that patients in the telemedicine group required fewer in-person rheumatology visits—1.9 visits on average per year compared to 2.6 visits in the usual care group, a reduction of 25.4%. This decrease in visits translated into healthcare savings of €180 per patient, based on healthcare costs alone, with no reduction in quality-adjusted life-years. From a broader societal perspective, considering travel and productivity losses, the cost-effectiveness was further validated. Additionally, safety outcomes were comparable, with both groups reporting minimal adverse events.
The findings suggest that PIFU supported by asynchronous telemedicine can be a cost-effective alternative for managing stable spondyloarthritis, easing pressure on healthcare systems while maintaining patient health. This model could help address healthcare workforce shortages and rising costs, providing a sustainable approach to follow-up care for chronic conditions.
Reference
Hermans K et al. Patient-initiated follow-up supported by asynchronous telemedicine versus usual care in spondyloarthritis (TeleSpA-study): a randomised controlled trial of clinical and cost-effectiveness. Lancet Rheumatol. 2024;DOI: 10.1016/S2665-9913(24)00229-7.
