Keywords
Telemedicine
Specialized care
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze the regional distribution, professional profile, costs, and population rates of specialized teleconsultations performed in Brazil between 2021 and 2024. Methods: A quantitative, epidemiological, descriptive, and time-series study was conducted using data from the Outpatient Information System of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SIA/SUS), provided by DATASUS. Medical teleconsultations and those performed by other higher-level health professionals were analyzed according to macro-region, federative units, costs, and rates per 100,000 inhabitants. Results: A total of 3,446,010 teleconsultations were recorded, with a decrease in 2022, recovery in 2023, and a peak in 2024 (1,098,996). The North (+181.9%) and Northeast (+202.8%) regions showed the greatest growth, while the Southeast and South experienced relative reductions. Physicians (1.3 million) and nurses (700,700) accounted for most consultations, with a trend toward balance between medical (49.1%) and non-medical professionals (50.9%) in 2024. Total costs reached R$ 26.5 million, concentrated in the Southeast. Population rates showed uneven expansion, especially in Alagoas and Piauí. Conclusion: Telehealth has consolidated as a relevant strategy in specialized care within the SUS, with potential to expand access and reduce regional inequalities, although its sustainability depends on funding, digital governance, and infrastructure.
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