Abstract
BackgroundIn Sub-Saharan countries, most patients with Parkinson's disease are underdiagnosed and untreated, with a marked shortage of qualified personnel. ObjectivesTo develop a tele-education Parkison's disease program for health providers in Douala (Cameroon). MethodsFeasibility, satisfaction, pre-post course medical knowledge improvement and patients' access were analyzed. ResultsTwenty lectures over the course of a year which connected participants with movement disorder experts using live, synchronous video conferences, and teaching materials were given. Thirty-three health professionals (52.4% women) including 16 doctors, and 17 allied health professionals and 18 speakers participated. Videoconferences were successfully completed in 80%, participation ranged from 20% to 70%, and satisfaction was at least above average in 70% of the participants. Whereas medical knowledge was dramatically improved, post-course patient access was not changed. ConclusionTele-education for movement disorders in low-income countries is feasible. However, better access and patient care should be ensured as the final outcome for tele-health education. A sustainability plan is crucial to continue with this important need.
Published Version
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