Needs assessment, design and development of an e-consultation system for neurological disorders to improve access to services. Case study: Ndera Neuropsychiatric Teaching Hospital(NNTH)

Abstract

Neurological disorders present challenges globally due to complexity and limited expertise. In person consultations are costly and inaccessible, especially for remote or mobility-limited patients. To improve accessibility and to link primary healthcare to Specialized healthcare, a neurological disorders e-consultation system has emerged. It utilizes technology to connect patients securely with neurologists, allowing remote access to consultations, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. Primary care physicians can also seek expert advice and collaborate, leading to accurate diagnoses and optimized treatment plans.

Aim: To design a neurological disorders electronic consultation system that addresses the challenges arising from the shortage of neurologists in Rwanda

Methods: This study used a quantitative approach with cross-section design. The study population were people who has been diagnosed on neurological disorders and the closed family and friends and 280 participants were determined as sample size. Data were collected using questionnaire conceived, adopted and slightly modified to meet the study objective and analyzed using SPSS 27 version. Descriptive statistics were used to find frequency and descriptive analysis of the participants after data analysis , the system were designed and developed to solve the arisen problem. importance in meeting medical needs. About 20.0% visit occasionally, while 4.0% visit rarely, and 1.0% never visit. This is specific to the surveyed population. Results: Regarding familiarity with neurological disorders, 97.5% of respondents are familiar, showing a high level of awareness. Additionally, 98% reported personal experience or knowledge of someone with a neurological disorder, highlighting their impact while An overwhelming majority, constituting 75.0% of the total respondents, reported frequent visits to these healthcare facilities. While headaches were the primary reason for seeking medical attention, accounting for approximately 23.6% of all cases. This statistic underscores the significant impact of headaches on individuals' overall well-being and their motivation to seek professional medical assistance. on epilepsy, contribute approximately 21.2% of the study population When asked about healthcare preferences, 61.1% chose "All above" options, including convenient access, reduced waiting times, cost savings, improved continuity of care, and access to specialized professionals.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings of the study have significant implications for the development of an e-neurology consultation system. The high utilization rate of primary health centers among the patients seeking neurology services indicates a strong demand for accessible healthcare services. This study's results also highlight the widespread familiarity with neurological v disorders among participants, suggesting that an e-neurology consultation system can cater to a population that already possesses some understanding of these conditions. Moreover, the preferences expressed by participants, such as convenient access, reduced waiting times, and access to specialized healthcare professionals, align with the key benefits that an e-neurology consultation system can offer. These findings support the notion that developing and implementing such a system can effectively meet the medical needs and preferences of individuals seeking neurological healthcare services